Loyd Ray Layton

Loyd Ray Layton, a dedicated mechanic for the city of Pryor, has passed away at the age of 84. He was born on November 7, 1939, in Pryor, Oklahoma, and took his last breath on January 1, 2024, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Loyd's life was one filled with passion for his work and an unwavering love for his family. Loyd dedicated many years of his life to serving his community as a mechanic for the city of Pryor. Whether it was fixing cars or maintaining the city's fleet, Loyd approached his work with diligence and skill. He took great pride in ensuring that everything was running smoothly and always lent a helping hand to those in need. His commitment to his profession earned him respect from colleagues and community members alike. Outside of work, Loyd had a variety of hobbies that brought him immense joy. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. It was evident that they were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment he spent with them. Whether it was playing games or sharing stories from their own childhoods, Loyd's love for them knew no bounds. One of Loyd's great passions was working on cars. Building hot rods held a special place in his heart, and he poured countless hours into perfecting each one he worked on. His expertise extended beyond just building cars; he thoroughly enjoyed attending car shows as well. Walking through rows of classic automobiles would ignite a spark within him as memories flooded back and he would regale his children and grandchildren with tales of the many cars he owned throughout his life. Loyd's knowledge about each car's make, model, color, and perhaps even its racing abilities never failed to amaze those around him. Fondly remembered as the "oldest teenager in town," Loyd was known for having some of the fastest cars in the area. Whether it was racing down Main Street or hitting the highway, he possessed a need for speed that captured the hearts of many. His infectious spirit and love for cars were evident to all who knew him. Loyd Ray Layton will forever be remembered as a hardworking mechanic who dedicated his skills to serving others and lovingly cared for his family. His passion for cars and stories have left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memories bring comfort to those who mourn his loss.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, January 5, 2024 in the North Elliott Church of God in Pryor with Pastor Ken Angel officaiting. Burial will follow in the Graham Memorial Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Thursday, January 4 , 2024 at Shipman's Funeral Home in Pryor. To leave his family a message, please visit his Tribute Wall at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service. 

Loyd is survived by his son, Stephen Kilgore and wife Deanna of Pryor, Oklahoma; daughters, Donnell Ashworth and husband Bruce of Adair, Oklahoma, Delonna Layton of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Arlene Fehly of Tulsa, Oklahoma; sisters, Imogene Thompson of Pryor, Oklahoma, Judy Burton and husband Larry of Pryor, Oklahoma, Diane Layton of Pryor, Oklahoma, Fern Johnson of Pryor, Oklahoma, and Vera Wallis of Chouteau, Oklahoma; 10 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Emery and Bessie Layton; wife, Carol Layton; daughter, Raylene Zemke; brother, Tommy Layton; and sisters, Dorothy Layton and Barbara Sharp.