Gary Lee Layton, age 55, of Euharlee, GA passed away on March 26, 2025 in the comfort of his home after a brave fight against pancreatic cancer.
Gary was Born on December 24, 1969, in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, to his parents: Daniel and Eileen Layton. He graduated from Antwerp High School in Antwerp, Ohio. Following high school, he served honorably for eight years in the United States Navy and was a Veteran of the Gulf War, exemplifying courage and dedication to his country. Gary received two Associate’s degrees and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering before receiving his Master’s degree in Project Management at the Citadel. Gary was a dedicated professional and was serving in his dream job as the Vice President of Aviation for ABM Industries, where he made a huge impression with his big heart and unwavering commitment to helping others. More than just his career accomplishments, Gary was a devoted family man. He spent 31 wonderful years married to Tracy Layton, the love of his life, and they created a beautiful life together. A highlight was their 25th wedding anniversary, which they celebrated through an unforgettable trip to Ireland, a testament of their passionate cultural heritage and love of the Irish family traditions. Together, they raised two remarkable children, Connor Layton and Heidi Layton, and they carry forward Gary’s legacy of compassion and love. Gary’s family was his pride and joy, and he found immense pleasure in creating lasting memories with them. His personality shone brightly; he was known for his good sense of humor and generous spirit. Gary had a great love for travel, experiencing the world through his military and work service as well as family vacations. He was a true aficionado of musicals, Marvel movies, Star Wars, reading—his favorite author being Robert Jordan with the beloved “Wheel of Time” series—video games like “The Final Fantasy” from Sega Genesis, and all things Sci-Fi and anime. His zest for life inspired those around him to embrace joy, explore, and connect and it truly shone through him. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.
He was preceded in death by his father, Daniel Layton; brother-in-law, Derrick Kirkland and a nephew, Jacob Layton.
Gary is survived by his loving wife, Tracy Layton, children: Connor Layton and Heidi (Christine Huber) Layton; mother, Eileen Layton Naylor (Bruce); brothers: Captain Jason (Crystal) Layton, Nickolas Layton; sisters, Cheryl Whitaker, Shannon (Tom) Kulback, Rebecca Layton, and Alicia Kirkland. He also leaves behind his in-laws, Paul and Pam Rowe, brother-in-law Shannon (Stephanie) Rowe, along with an abundance of loving nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom will miss him dearly.
Funeral Services to celebrate the life of Mr. Gary Layton will be held on Sunday, March 30, 2025 at 2:00 PM in the chapel of Salmon Funeral Home. Following the funeral service Mr. Layton will be cremated.
The family will receive friends at Salmon Funeral Home on Saturday, March 29, 2025 from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM.
As you gather to celebrate the life of Gary, his family would like to honor his joyful spirit and love for all things Hawaiian and vacationing. In their memory, they invite you to wear a Hawaiian-themed shirt or “vacation casual” to the visitation and the funeral service. It was something he truly loved and his family feels is a wonderful way to reflect his warmth, positivity and all around “good vibes” Gary brought to those fortunate enough to call him a friend or family.
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully asks that memorial donations be made to The Wounded Warriors Project or to an Orphanage close to Gary’s heart, Our Little Brothers and Sisters: http://www.nph_ireland.org.
Salmon Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve and care for the family of Mr. Gary Lee Layton.