Obituary of Arthur S. Gayton, Jr.

OLEAN — Arthur S. Gayton, a loving father, brother, and friend, passed from this earth to his eternal reward in Heaven on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Olean General Hospital following a brief illness. Born in Buffalo, he was the cherished son of the late Arthur S. Gayton Sr. and Lucy H. White. He was a graduate of Lafayette High School. Arthur was a hardworking man who took pride in his community. He was a dedicated former employee of both St. Bonaventure University and Casella Waste Systems. A devout man of faith, he was a dedicated member of Epic Church in Olean. Above all, Arthur's greatest devotion was to his family. He had an immense love for his children and completely adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought endless joy to his life. An avid sports fan, he passionately followed Buffalo sports, always rooting for his beloved Buffalo Bills, and he had a deep love for the game of basketball. He is survived by his loving children: Evia Gayton of Buffalo, Alicia Gayton of Buffalo, Daniel Gayton of Olean, Stacy Swartz of Olean, Arthur Gayton of Buffalo, Tival Williams of New York City, and William Gayton of Olean. Arthur is also survived by his sisters, Ava M. Bryson, Antoinette M. Burney, and Pamela Smith, all of Buffalo; his brothers, Bruce Gayton and Ahmad (Tonya) R. Burney Sr., both of Olean; and his sister, Deborah Jackson of Charlotte, North Carolina. His legacy also lives on through a multitude of nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Anthony B. Taplin, Amorette L. Taplin, and Ardella Taplin, all of Buffalo. Family and friends are invited to attend his services on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Epic Church (Olean, NY). A viewing will be held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed immediately by a funeral service from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. A luncheon will follow the services. Arrangements are with the Casey, Halwig & Hartle Funeral Home, Olean.