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Frank Layden
1932 - 2025
Frank Layden
1932 - 2025
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1932
DIED
2025
Frank Layden Obituary
He was head coach for the Utah Jazz in the 1980s, leading the team to the NBA playoffs in five straight seasons. He later coached the WNBA's Utah Starzz.
Laden is being remembered for his larger than life personality and his passion for basketball.
By Legacy News Staff
(Image: AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)
15 Entries
Joanne Hudson
August 21, 2025
What a vibrant and inspiring personality. I never saw anyone as passionate about basketball as Frank. I miss watching him coach Jazz players, although I did see him coaching the Starzz. He will be deeply missed by many in Utah and everywhere else.
J Sieglaff
August 10, 2025
I´m so sorry for your loss. He was an amazing inspiration in his personality and love for basketball. He will be deeply missed by so many. Sending condolences to his family and friends. Rest in eternal peace with God by your side, Frank.
John Moore
July 20, 2025
Dear Barbara, Scott, Michael and Katie,
WE were saddened by the news of Frank´s passing but heartened by so many fond memories of the times are lives overlapped back on Norwood Ave in Niagara Falls and of course at Niagara University.
You may recall our first child, Dennis; he and Mike often played up and down the street, and often there were gatherings at your home on the other side of the street. My memories of NU are clothed on the great folks surrounding the University. I remember the downtown farewell party where Hubie greeted everyone as you left for the NBA, and when he congratulated Taps Gallagher for having two former players simultaneously coaching in the league.
I have fond memories of the faculty and the good Vincentian priests. I believe it was Frank who replied to a Gazette reporter when asked about the Lay Faculty Union being formed during the day; I believe he said that The Good priests took a vow of poverty and expected the faculty to live by it! That was typically Frank with a touch of humor always; it heartened we union organizers!
We will remember you all at Mass in the morning, and thank the Lord for the wonderful days and friends at old Niagara U.
Thank you ... Rita and John Moore
Mr. & Mrs. Jay Hillock
July 20, 2025
We love you Frank.
Sincerely, Mr. & Mrs. Jay Hillock.
How you can show support
Adrian Avila
July 17, 2025
RIP Mr Layden, You'll be missed by many, 1932 - 2025 Go Jazz.
Brian T
July 16, 2025
I'll never forget the game against Pat Riley's Lakers when you looked at Riley and whipped out you pocket comb. You quicklet combed your hair back like his. You had everyone in stitches!
Mary
July 14, 2025
Sincere condolences to the family.
RR
July 13, 2025
Such an inspirational and dedicated coach. His coaching was a great contribution to the Utah Jazz. Sincerest condolences to the Layden family, may God be with you all in your time of loss.
Norman H. Hitzges
July 12, 2025
I am sorry to learn of the passing of one of my dearest friends. It was always a joy to have him as a guest on my radio show.
Joe Bonin & John Sutera (Goose)
July 12, 2025
John castellano
July 10, 2025
I had the privilege of working with Frank as an Utah Jazz broadcast cameraman. Loved his stories, his insight, his humor. One day before a jazz game was to start he was out on the court as I was. I grabbed a ball and started shooting listening to him tell stories at the same time he offered a slight adjustment to my form in a most respectful way. I'll never forget that day. Frank you made SLC and the state of Utah a better place. Love John Castellano
George Zinn
July 10, 2025
Tommy Tanzer
July 10, 2025
George Zinn
July 10, 2025
There was nothing about Frank Layden you could not love. A Brooklyn transplant who made Utah his lifetime home. If you met Frank you were immediately his friend. He remembered my name among thousands of admirers.
Frank's devotion to Barbara was an unrequited romance. They were joined at the hip.
Nobody would suspect the Laydens of being art affecionados. They were as at ease at the opera, symphony or theater as seeing a slam dunk from the Utah Jazz.
Frank's humor and infectious smile made everybody's day better. One of the greatest speakers I have ever heard.
The world was a better place with Frank Layden. Thank you so much Barbara for sharing him with us. I know he is making God smile.
Maria Lenzsch
July 10, 2025
RIP Uncle Frank. Thank you for all the great memories Love you hugs
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