Stephen (Steve) Ryder Layton entered peacefully into rest at the Veteran’s Hospital in Palo Alto, California on July 14, 2020. He was 101 years old.

Born September 12, 1918 in Highlands, New Jersey to parents Mary and Anthony Layton, Steve served in the US Navy for 7 years. He was awarded a Purple Heart during his service in WWII. Steven went on to work as a railroad switchman for Southern Pacific Railroad for over 20 years. He loved bowling, fishing, reading, and ships, and was a volunteer with the Southern Lake Tahoe Senior Center and the Tallac Historic Home.

Steve was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Carey Belle Layton; son Stephen Layton, Jr.; daughter Nancy Lewis; and siblings Frances, Anthony and Marcella. He is survived by his children Paul Brown (Judy), Cis Purcelli (George), Frances Ubrick (Rick), and James Layton; grandchildren Debbie, Doreen, Danny, Donna, Dorothy, Douglas, Angela, Carey, Renee, Raymond, and Kellie; 29 great grandchildren; 9 great-great grandchildren; nieces and nephews Pat Hayden, Bob Titterman, Margaret Dean, Frances Turpin, and Mary Foster; and many other loving family members and friends. He will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you please consider making a donation to the Livermore VA Community Living Center.