James Lomax Layton passed away on April 23, 2024, surrounded by his family. Max was preceded in death by his father, Willie David Layton; his mother, Myrtice Guy; his brothers, Joe Layton, Donnie Layton, and Bobby Layton; his sister, Betty-Sue Morris; and his son, Brandon Keith Layton. He is survived by his brothers, David Layton (Lupe) and Lavelle Layton; his children, Dee Carter Bugg (Robert), Sandy Carter Green, Misty Layton Carastro, Angie Layton Wray, Amanda Lea Layton, James Jason Layton (Josalyn), and Jennifer Carter (David); his grandchildren, Rob, Drew, Blake, Brock, Abbey, Matt, Mandi, Danielle, Dane, Elizabeth, Victoria, Jackson, Evelyn, Olivia, and Chloe (arriving in May); and his great-grandchildren, Taven, Kaden, Aurora, and Zander.
Max graduated from Notasulga High School and built a career in the textile industry, working in many states and other countries. After over 30 years in the industry, Max started his own HVAC and electrical business, providing courteous, quality service to community members, family, and friends. He enjoyed serving others.
Max always admired fast cars and shiny engines. He built his own race car and often had a collection of cars. One of his favorite hobbies was tinkering with motors. A significant adventure in his life was a once-in-a-lifetime fast run in a race car at the Atlanta Speedway, where he put the pedal to the metal.
Max loved Alabama football and basketball. He was the loudest and most passionate fan of his team, enjoying shucking oysters and watching games with his brothers. He cherished the time he spent with them at Bryant-Denny Stadium, cheering for a big Roll Tide!
Max enjoyed music and singing and was a vocalist in his high school band. He loved all genres of music and admired many artists. He was a wonderful singer and loved to dance, excelling in country line dancing. It was a pleasure to sit with him as he strummed the guitar and sang old favorite songs.
Max had many hobbies and interests. He was an avid reader, passing on the joy of reading to his children. He enjoyed authors like James Patterson, Michael Crichton, and John Grisham. He even read the encyclopedia for fun and learning purposes. Max also enjoyed being outdoors, with boat rides on Lake Guntersville bringing him joy. He loved driving and soaking in the scenery, as well as fishing. If you ever played pool with Max, you know his skills; he might have taught his children how to play, but he was the one who constantly ran the table.
Above all, Max was family-oriented. He loved his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren deeply. His heart was full of pride over their accomplishments, whether academically, in their careers, in sports, or their kindness towards others. Along with his family, Max shared close friendships with Claudia Layton Fowlkes, Bob Worthy, and Erik Larder. He spent a great deal of time with them laughing, sharing meals, and working together. Max was truly grateful for his family and dear friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations honoring Max made to the American Diabetes Association or Essential Church in Huntsville, AL.
A memorial service will be planned at a later date.
Hazel Green Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.
