Charles "Charlie" Layton

Fort Meade - Charles Layton, age 78, passed away Saturday, September 12, 2020. Charles was born January 12, 1942 in Ashville, AL to Alvin and Evelyne Layton. His family moved to Fort Meade in 1951. His mother taught him about Jesus and took him to church to hear the word of God. They both shared a passion for gospel music. He learned the value of an honest day's work from his father and the importance of providing for your family. Charles enjoyed playing baseball and basketball as a youth. He graduated from Fort Meade High School in 1961. He continued that passion by coaching baseball and softball for a total of 36 years. Charles, who was called "Charlie" by his friends and family wanted to give teenagers an opportunity to learn about sportsmanship and teamwork. He began attending church at First Baptist in Fort Meade and was baptized in June of 1970 by Pastor Miles Patterson. Charles accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior as a youth but publicly professed his faith at age of 28 and was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Fort Meade. Charles began dating Laverne in the spring of 1970 and they married on June 6, 1971. The two of them shared the same morals and values but most of all, their love for Jesus. Charles and Laverne gave birth to their daughter Charlene Lynn Vazeos (husband Joseph) and son Matthew Charles Layton (wife Kristy). Charles is also survived by his brothers Clayford Layton of Wauchula and Richard Layton of Henderson, TN, sister Sue Williams of Henderson, TN, two grandchildren Noah Matthew Layton and Lily Grace Layton, many nieces & nephews and his loving dog Levi. Charles worked in a lab after high school, then a clerk at Smiling Jacks and on to supply and inventory at the Polk County School Board for 29 years when he retired. Charles read his bible every day. He was devoted to "staying in the word" and enjoyed sharing God's word with others especially his family. Charles was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He showed his family God's unconditional love at all times no matter the circumstance or situation. His children recall their father always being present to teach them about Jesus, coach them in sports, help them with their homework and most importantly be a friend. Charles was patient and humble with such a tender heart. He was faithful to his wife for over 49 years. They had grown older but still treated one another like they were teenagers. They shared laughter, scripture and prayer each night prior to going to sleep. Charles supported our military troops and had a profound love for our country. The national anthem would bring tears to his eyes. He enjoyed watching westerns, Alabama football and inspirational movies. His eye would light up at a gospel concert because the music touched his soul. But above all, he treasured the day he became a grandfather to Noah Matthew in 2012. Noah and his Papa were special buddies. They shared stories, listened to music, watched cartoons and enjoyed eating beets. Charles had a granddaughter Lily Grace in April of this year. He felt so grateful and blessed that his family was complete. Family will receive friends Wednesday, September 16, 2020 from 10 to 11 am at McLean Funeral Home in Fort Meade. Funeral service will follow at 11:00 am Wednesday, September 16, 2020, at McLean Funeral Home. Interment will be held at Evergreen Cemetery in Fort Meade, FL. Condolences to family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com