It feels impossible, even unreasonable, to be asked to sum up the achievements of a man in one sitting. Robert “Bob” Thomas Cyphers lived just 81 years and managed to accomplish enough milestones for three men. From his time in service with the Air Force, teaching in Tennessee after earning his Masters of Art and Teaching at East Tennessee State University, growing his family legacy, and becoming a compassionate landlord; Bob also found the time to take over a second legacy in the form of a family owned business known by all as Cyphers Plumbing, Heating and Electric.
Bob will be remembered fondly in the faces of his five children, Melissa, David, Jennifer, Alexandra and Nicholas; the few people on this Earth who were given the chance to learn from him, laugh with him and love him dearly. Echoes of his best qualities living on in his five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Bob was undeniably charismatic; an individual who through hard work, determination, and at times stubbornness, paved the way for himself, his children and grandchildren.
Bob dazzled his family and friends with his outgoing personality and relentless energy. Childhood stories from his brother Bill Cyphers, cousin Roberta Ringstaff, long-time friend John Street, and bosom buddy Garnet Webb, his children were regaled with hilarious anecdotes of Bob’s antics and sharp witty humor. From accidentally dying his hair orange in boy scouts before being picked up by his parents Buford and Ola Mae, to stealing a paddle boat with James Ringstaff and planting cherry bombs in cow pies. Bob could not be mistaken for a boring person.
Equally, his silent acts as a kind, charitable man should not go unnoticed. Anonymous donations to multiple children’s hospitals year after year, lowering or going without rent from struggling tenants and supporting his late friend Wayne Fretwell, Bob held a space in his heart for those in need. Bob was also profoundly forgiving. He taught many around him, some who he had no idea were even listening, how to be still, calm and forgive those around us.
Handsome to his very last breath, Bob was blessed to have caught the eye of a very gifted artist who became the love of his life, Kay Krapfl. Kay single handedly reignited his desire to live life to the fullest. Dancing his way into her heart and arms, Kay and Bob spent the last 17 years together enjoying sunsets on the beach, quiet dinners and stolen moments of time where their love could truly blossom. Kay, as timeless as her art, gifted Bob more love than any woman ever could, and stood beside him in his illness like a pillar of steel. Kay’s four amazing children championed her by being at Bob’s side as well.
It is because of all this, and more, that Robert “Bob” Thomas Cyphers will be eternally and sorely missed.
Service for Bob will be held at the King of Glory Church on Monday May 12th, 2025 at 2pm located on Longhill Road.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a charitable donation in Bob’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, CHKD, or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
