Obituary of John Layton

John Gilbert Layton, 86, of Raleigh, died Saturday morning, February 4, 2012. Although known as John by his social and work acquaintances, he was always Gilbert to his family. A lifelong resident of Wake County, he was born January 29, 1926 to Henry Owen and Emma Smith Layton.

Gilbert was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 40 years, Jessie Blackwood Layton; three brothers, Marvin Layton, Leon Layton and Bobby Layton. He is survived by five nieces, three nephews, fifteen great nieces and nephews and fourteen great-great nieces and nephews.

Gilbert married Jessie Blackwood Layton on July 4, 1970 at the First Baptist Church in Carthage, NC. He and Jessie shared many common interests and enjoyed traveling. Gilbert was loyal to his mother, providing assistance to her after the death of his father.

Gilbert graduated from Millbrook High School in 1944 and then served in the United States Army during World War II. He had a successful career with the U.S. Postal Service from which he retired in 1988. Although he was employed with the U.S. Postal Service, when asked about his life's work, it was his interest in securities that he enjoyed most. Gilbert was a life member of Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, a member of the Disabled American Veterans, the American Legion and the National Association of Retired Federal Employees. He received his Diamond Jubilee Certificate in recognition of 60 years as a Master Mason in 2009.

A Graveside Funeral Service to celebrate Gilbert's life will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday at Montlawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at Montlawn Funeral Home from 1 - 2 p.m. Wednesday.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, 4415 Pleasant Grove Church Road, Raleigh, NC 27613.

Arrangements are by Montlawn Funeral Home, 2911 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh, N.C. Condolences may be made at www.montlawn.com