Robert J. Caughman

Robert J. “Bob” Caughman, 85, of Gilbert, South Carolina, passed away peacefully, Thursday, June 4, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and friends. Born on October 13, 1940, in Lexington, South Carolina, Bob was the son of the late Henry M. “Bill” Caughman and Corrie Ward Caughman.

Bob grew up in Lexington and later made his home in the Gilbert community after marrying Mary Carole Smith. On December 10, 1966, they were married at Pond Branch Methodist Church, where they began a life together, building a family and sharing nearly 59 years of marriage. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and community servant, Bob lived a life rooted in hard work, dedication, and service to others.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Carole Smith Caughman; his children, Jan C. Wingard (Charles) and Cara Ann C. Lindler (Jay); grandchildren, Mary Grace Wingard, Caroline Wingard, Clark Wingard, and Callie Ann Lindler. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Lynda Shuler Caughman.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, F. W. “Billy” Caughman and his wife, Marguerite White Caughman, and David Don Caughman.

Bob dedicated much of his working life to Caughman’s Meat Plant, Inc., where he worked alongside his family. After many years in the meat business, he became a partner in the restaurant at the 44 Truck Stop. Throughout his life, he was involved in cattle farming and later entered cattle marketing. He was also a MoorMan’s salesman and was known throughout the community for helping friends and neighbors care for their cattle.

A longtime member of Pond Branch Methodist Church, Bob served in many roles over the years, including Trustee, Health and Welfare Committee, Cemetery Committee, and chairman of the Building Committee for the Family Activities Building. He also chaired the committee responsible for the church’s stained-glass windows and was well known for cube steak suppers and auctioning items for church fundraisers and other events. For many years, he volunteered his time helping maintain the church cemetery.

Bob’s dedication to service extended throughout Lexington County and beyond. He served 44 years on the Board of Trustees for Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative and held leadership roles with the South Carolina Electric Cooperative. He also served on the boards of Gilbert-Summit Water District and the Lexington County Hospital. He was active in the Gilbert Community Club, the Gilbert Ruritan Club, the Hollywood Ruritan Club, and the Lexington County Peach Festival. He served Lexington County for many years as a poll manager.

Bob will be remembered for his strong work ethic, commitment to his community, and his dedication to family, friends, and neighbors.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation for the love and care shown by the staff at Wellmore of Lexington and MSA Hospice.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 6, at 11:00 a.m. at Pond Branch Methodist Church, 1913 Pond Branch Road, Gilbert, South Carolina, 29054. Visitation will follow in the Family Activities Building.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Pond Branch Methodist Church Cemetery Fund.