Brian Ralph Gayhart

Brian Ralph “Hap” Gayhart, 77, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025. Born on April 15, 1948, in Boise, Idaho, Hap lived a full and adventurous life defined by service, hard work, and an endless curiosity for the world around him. 

Hap proudly served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Hornet CVS-12 during the Vietnam War, an experience that shaped his lifelong sense of discipline, loyalty, and pride in his country. After his military service, he built a remarkable career in the heavy‑duty trucking industry. Known as a legend in his field, Hap worked as a Diesel and Heavy Truck Mechanic, owned and operated his own business, and later led service departments for both Kenworth and Peterbilt dealerships. His expertise, leadership, and integrity earned him deep respect across the industry.

 Throughout his life, Hap collected not only skills and stories but also nicknames—yet “Hap” was the one that stuck, a reflection of the joy, humor, and light he brought to everyone who knew him.

Hap married the love of his life, Sandra Kay Gayhart, and together they built a life rich with adventure, raising their family across many places including Salt Lake City, Utah; Spokane, Washington; Buena Park, California; Flagstaff, Arizona; Las Vegas, Nevada; St. George, Utah; and finally Cleveland, Georgia. No matter where they lived, Hap made every place feel like home. 

He pursued his passions with the same dedication he brought to his work. In Arizona, he found joy in horses; in California, he explored the ocean through scuba diving; and in Las Vegas, he took to the skies as a pilot. Hap lived boldly, always eager to learn something new or master a new craft.

 Hap is survived by his devoted wife, Sandra Kay Gayhart; his daughter, Shannon Smith; his son and daughter‑in‑law, Weston B. Gayhart and Sabrina Renee’ Gayhart; and his beloved grandchildren, Dayton Smith, Brady Smith, Angelina Gayhart, and Gianna Gayhart. He cherished his family above all else, and his love for them was unwavering.

Hap’s legacy lives on in the countless people he helped, taught, and inspired—family, friends, coworkers, and anyone lucky enough to cross his path. His humor, his stories, and his generous spirit will be deeply missed.