Denny Layton

Farrel Dennis "Denny" Layton passed away on January 7, 2013, in Chandler Arizona with his family around him. Denny was born on May 14, 1938 to Farrel and Bessie Layton in Thatcher Arizona. He lived in Thatcher, a town he loved, worked in and served in his entire life. He served in the South Australian Mission for the LDS Church in 1958. Denny graduated from Thatcher High School, Eastern Arizona Jr College, and received his Bachelors of Science in Agricultural Economics from Arizona State University. He married Paula Freestone on December 20, 1962 in the Mesa Arizona Temple, and they just celebrated their 50th Anniversary together on December 20, 2012. Denny was a successful and hard working farmer/rancher. If anything could be said about Denny, it would be that he was committed and selfless in his service; whether it be in his vocation, his church or in the community. He served on the Thatcher School Board for 25 years; 20 as president. Graham Institute For Technology Board for 12 years, Eastern Arizona College Board for 10 years. Was awarded Graham County Rotary Farmer of the Year 1981 and Arizona Farm Bureau Federation Farmer of the Year 2001. President of Gila Valley Irrigation District for 23 years, Graham County Coop Extension Board, 37 years; chairman 30 years. Union Canal Board 29 years; president 24 years. San Jose Canal Board, 36 years. Barzona Cattle Board and SWIG Board Member, 11 years. He served in the LDS Church in many positions, including Bishop. He especially enjoyed his service in the Gila Valley Temple the past 2 years. His greatest service, was given to his family. He was always a supportive and concerned son, husband, dad and grandpa. Quoting a 1981 article in the Courier "Any way you look at it Farrel Dennis Layton is a busy man". Denny is survived by his wife of 50 years, Paula Freestone, his 98 year old mother, Bessie Allred Layton, his brother Deon (Marilyn) Layton, his 6 children, Jodi (Brian) Welker, Elise Layton Alva, Stephanie (Joel) Biggs, Lance (Sherri) Layton, Audra (Ladd) Smith, Adam (Leiah) Layton, and 23 beautiful grandchildren. Funeral Services for Farrel Dennis Layton, will be held on Monday January 14, 2013 at 10 a.m. at the Thatcher Stake Center. A viewing will be held on Sunday January 13, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 pm, and at 9:00 am on Monday January 14th, prior to services, both at the Thatcher Stake Center. In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Thatcher Schools Scholarship Foundation at PO Box 382, Thatcher, AZ 85552.