James "Jim" Williams Layne

James (Jim) Williams Layne, 78, of Weatherford, Texas, went home to be with his Lord on Thursday, June 22, 2023. James was born on October 30, 1944 to James and Bennie Jo Layne in Birmingham, Alabama. Jim joined the Air Force in 1963 and was stationed in Everett, Washington. He met the love of his life, Susan Close, and they were married on February 26, 1965. Jim and Susan had five children. He was a truck driver for over 35 years, holding positions from Academy Manager as driving instructor and CDL tester for the state of Washington. Jim also held a black belt in Karate. Jim enjoyed spending time with his family telling stories. He had a wonderful way of lighting up any room. Jim loved people and never met a stranger. Jim was also a licensed minister with the Church of God, preaching the gospel was the true joy of his life. Jim was a true pastor at heart. He always reached out to anyone who was hurting or needing encouragement. God blessed Jim with a special gifting that drew people to him, which allowed him to share his Greatest Love, which was Christ. Jim had the joy to perform weddings, baptisms, and preach funerals for many family members. Jim was preceded in death by his infant son, James Edward Layne; and parents, James and Bennie Jo Layne. Jim is survived by his beautiful wife of 58 years, Susan Layne; younger sister, Cheryl Layne Lindsay; children, Stacie and husband Mark Earwood of Mukilteo, Washington, Jonathan and wife Catherine Layne of Weatherford, Texas, Tonya and husband Nolen Thomason of Mineral Wells, Texas, Selina and husband Cliff Hansen of Houston, Texas. He is also survived by eight grandchildren, Stephanie, Mark, Jr., Daniel, Maegan, Samuel, Michael, Terra, and Riley; and 14 great-grandchildren. Jim was a loving husband, dad, and best Paw Paw, and will be greatly missed. A Memorial Service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 1, 2023 at the Mineral Wells Church of God, 2501 S. E. 14th Ave., Mineral Wells, Texas 76067. In lieu of flowers, Jim requested donations be made to the American Heart Association.