Ray Layton

Reverend Ray Layton of Enterprise, Alabama, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the age of 77. Born on August 31, 1948, to the late Fred and Irene Sipper Layton, he was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Valinda Layton, and his brother, Fred Coley Layton.

Ray devoted more than 50 years of his life to faithful ministry, serving as pastor of many churches in the area and most recently leading the congregation at Grace Assembly of God. Even while in the hospital and during rehabilitation, he continued to minister to those around him, always concerned for the salvation of the lost. A dedicated family man, he cherished his wife and children, building deep and lasting bonds with every member of his family. He often drew upon these relationships in his preaching, testifying to the importance of raising a family on a solid biblical foundation, and he frequently reminded others that it is never too late to strengthen the ties with those we love.

He is survived by his children, Cynthia Stricklin (Paul) and Chad Layton (Melissa), both of Enterprise; his sister, Elaine Anderson; his brother-in-law, Tony Bradley (Darlene); and his three grandchildren, Skylar Stricklin (Abie), Chase Layton (Lynsey), and Abby Layton.