Robert Gay

Robert George Gay, 73, of St. Helena, SC, passed away Thursday, November 6, 2025.

Robert was born on February 22, 1952 in Beaufort, SC. He is the son of the late John Henry Gay and Hilda Smith Gay.

Robert was a Beaufort High graduate in 1970, the last of the Tidal Waves. He was drafted into the Army after high school where he was deployed to Korea. After the service, he began his life long career as a shrimp boat captain. Many remember his boat the Miss Tiffany dragging the Harbor River and attending Water Festival events. He is also remembered for his love for music, surfing, and his talent for story telling. He was a proud co-owner of his family's business, Gay Fish Company, for the past 30 years.

Surviving is one daughter, Hilary Gallop; one son, Dalton Gay; one brother, Charles Gay; one sister, Hilda Upton.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, John, Richard and William Gay.

Celebration of life will be held Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 1pm at Hunting Island State Park, North Beach Pavilion. Park fee or park pass will be required to enter the park. Please arrive 20 minutes early to allow the gate time to get everyone through.