I have many fond memories of Colonel Robert P. Plimpton. During my thirty-five years of Federal service, he was, without question, the finest supervisor I ever had. When the Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Information Management–Automation retired, Colonel Plimpton selected me to fill that position, making him my direct supervisor. Our organization was going through a period of significant change, and the workload was demanding. Yet no matter how hectic things became, his calm demeanor, steady leadership, and pleasant attitude helped keep us all grounded.
One of the qualities I admired most was his willingness to listen. Whenever I was concerned about a proposal or a new plan I was developing, he took the time to hear my thoughts. He would offer thoughtful suggestions to strengthen the work, or, when he believed it was ready, simply tell me, "I like what you've presented. Go with it." That confidence meant more than he probably realized.
He also had a wonderful sense of humor. One memory still makes me smile. Shortly after receiving a new computer, he called me into his office because he couldn't get it to turn on. He told me he had tried everything. The first thing I checked was whether it was plugged in—and it wasn't. I plugged it in, and the computer immediately sprang to life. Colonel Plimpton looked at me with his face turning bright red. He was a blusher when he became embarrassed, and so am I, so I understood exactly how he felt. I laughed and told him I had learned that little trick through personal experience. The tension disappeared, and before long, we were both laughing. It became one of those stories we enjoyed sharing over the years, our own little secret.
Beyond his leadership, I remember how proud he was of his family. He was always eager to share photographs and speak about them with genuine love and pride. It was easy to see that they were the center of his life.  My heartfelt sympathy and prayers are with his family.

I worked with Bob during his contract years. He had a unique gift for lightening the mood, no matter the situation. Bob greeted me each morning with his great smile and encouraging words, setting a positive tone for the day ahead.

His broad operational and technical knowledge were vital contributors to the many successes we enjoyed. I believe I can speak for everyone on our team from that time when I say we felt honored and fortunate to have had Bob as part of our team.

Enjoying the good life with Bob Plimpton on a trip to Scotland a few years ago. We had great memories of Bob from that trip. Bob was my best friend. He was more like a brother. We will all miss him dearly.

Bob and I shared many special times over the last 35 years.  We both had a passion for family and golf.  We were a part of the Myrtle Beach group and then moved on to the Pinehurst group.  I had the pleasure of working for Bob at INSCOM up until my retirement.  I moved on to BAE Systems and knew Bob would be a great addition to BAE. We continued to stay in touch up until his passing.  During these times, we continued to talk about our families and golf.  He will be sorely missed as a good friend and member of the Pinehurst team.

I will always have special memories of Robert and his twin brother, Richard, as I knew them well in Willows. Everyone in town knew the Plimpton Twins, as they had amazing singing voices. They often entertained and were admired, and highly respected by everyone.  They were outstanding singers and just great kids.

 I never knew them as adults, but after reading Robert's obituary, I'm not at all surprised at the successful and exemplary life he led.

Until we meet again, Rob!
Ray Sehorn

OBITUARY

Robert Payne Plimpton

July 30, 1942 – June 29, 2026

Demaine Funeral Home

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