John Layton Obituary
John F. Layton, 82, of Independence, Kansas, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Potts Chapel. The family will greet visitors from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Potts Chapel.
Memorial contributions in John’s honor may be made to Tina Schicke Memorial Scholarship (CNBT National Bank).
John was born on November 14, 1942, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Ned and Gladys (Dill) Layton. He grew up in Ulysses, Kansas, where he graduated from local schools before attending Emporia State University and earning his bachelor’s degree.
On November 24, 1960, John married Alberta R. Gantt in Ulysses, Kansas. Together, they made their home in Emporia before relocating several times for John’s career with Cities Service Gas Company, now known as Southern Star. In 1981, they settled in Independence, Kansas, where they remained. He was actively involved in coaching wrestling with the Independence Wrestling Club. John dedicated 39 years of service to Southern Star before retiring in 1999.
Following his retirement, John and Alberta enjoyed traveling the country in their RV, embracing the freedom of the open road. When not traveling, John could often be found in his workshop woodworking, out fishing or bow hunting, or proudly attending his grandchildren’s school programs and sporting events. He was a devoted member of Tyro Christian Church and a man deeply committed to his faith, family, and community.
John was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Tina Schicke; and his great-granddaughter, Kinsley Schicke.
He is survived by his loving wife, Alberta, of the home; one son, Todd Layton of Tega Cay, South Carolina; one daughter, Natalie (Todd) Miller of Topeka, Kansas; two sisters, Ginger Anthony of Ulysses, Kansas, and Jeannie (Harold) Schwien of Wichita, Kansas; four grandchildren, C.J. (Kaylee) Schicke, Cody (Morgan) Schicke, Abby Miller, and Jack Layton; and four great-grandchildren, Lacey, Lainey, Madi, and Keagan.
John’s legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.pottsfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Potts Chapel.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
122 S Penn Ave, Independence, KS 67301
People and places connected with John
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for John Layton
Tell your own story about John
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
How you can show support
Make a Donation
in John Layton's name
How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor John Layton's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored