BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. — The family, friends, and loved ones of James “Jim” L. Layton, 83, are mourning his passing on Saturday, September 19, 2026, in Bridgeport, West Virginia.
Jim Layton was born on November 10, 1942, in Clarksburg, the son of the late Fred Layton and Mildred Peters Layton. His life included a long working career, a variety of personal interests, and relationships with family and lifelong friends that remained important throughout his years.
His passing has left those who knew him remembering his humor, generosity, friendships, and the many experiences that shaped his life.
Remembering James “Jim” L. Layton
James “Jim” Layton will be remembered by those closest to him as a man with a quick wit, sharp sense of humor, and generous heart.
According to his obituary, Jim had a way of bringing laughter to the people around him. His friends and family could count on him for a quick comment or humorous observation, qualities that helped make him a memorable presence.
He also valued longstanding friendships. Among those particularly important to him were his lifelong friends Cheryle and Jim Randall.
For those who knew Jim, memories of conversations, laughter, shared interests, and time spent together will remain an important part of his legacy.
Jim Layton’s Family
Jim was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Judith Saliga Layton, who died on December 10, 2024.
He is survived by his son, Stefan Layton of Bridgeport.
Jim is also survived by his brother, Fred Layton and his wife Elizabeth; nephew Matthew Saliga and his wife Summer; nieces Julie Saliga and Emily Saliga and her husband Justin; and great-niece Ava Prickett.
The family relationships Jim maintained throughout his life formed an important part of his story.
His loved ones will now carry forward the memories created through years of family gatherings, conversations, celebrations, and everyday experiences.
Jim Layton’s Career
Jim spent many years working in the engine-repair and automotive industry.
His career included positions at several engine repair businesses, including Engine Rebuilders, Trade Motors, and Engine Machine Specialty.
He later worked for Pratt Whitney, where he remained until retiring in 2008.
His working life represented decades of hands-on experience and dedication to his profession.
For colleagues and people who knew Jim through his work, his career was another important part of the life he built in the Bridgeport area.
A Passion for Racing and Flying
Outside of work, Jim had several interests that brought him enjoyment.
He enjoyed hunting and fishing, spending time outdoors and pursuing activities that allowed him to make the most of his free time.
He also enjoyed flying radio-controlled model airplanes, an interest that reflected his fascination with aviation and mechanical hobbies.
Another major passion was drag car racing.
Jim was proudly known in racing circles by the nickname “Flying Hog.” His enthusiasm for drag racing became one of the distinctive aspects of his personality and a memorable part of how friends and family remember him.
Jim Layton and His Sense of Humor
One of the qualities most emphasized in Jim’s obituary was his sense of humor.
He was remembered as someone who could quickly make people laugh and who often had a witty observation ready.
Humor can become an important part of the memories people carry after someone dies. For Jim’s friends and relatives, stories about his comments, personality, and ability to bring laughter into everyday situations may remain among the most cherished memories.
His kindness and generosity complemented that humor, creating a personality that made him meaningful to the people around him.
Remembering His Wife, Judith
Jim’s life was also deeply connected to his marriage to Judith Saliga Layton.
The couple were married for 50 years before Judith’s death in December 2024.
Their long marriage represented decades of shared experiences, family life, friendships, and memories.
For Jim’s family, the loss of Judith before him was another important chapter in his later years.
Now that Jim has passed away, those who knew the couple will remember them through the years they spent together.
Jim Layton’s Final Years
During the final year of his life, Jim received care from Carrie Seckman, Julie Saliga, and Brooke Ford.
His family expressed gratitude for the care and compassion they provided.
The family’s acknowledgment reflects the importance of caregivers and loved ones who provide support during difficult periods of life.
Their presence became part of Jim’s final chapter and is remembered with appreciation by his family.
James “Jim” L. Layton Cause of Death
The available obituary does not identify a specific cause of death for Jim Layton.
He died in Bridgeport on September 19, 2026, at age 83.
No specific illness or medical condition should be attributed to his death unless additional information is released by his family or another authorized source.
Respecting the family’s privacy is important while they mourn his passing.
Cremation and Funeral Information
Jim’s obituary states that his wishes for cremation will be honored.
The family has not indicated a traditional burial service in the available information.
Those wishing to express condolences or support the Layton family should rely on official announcements from the family or Davis Funeral Home and Onsite Crematory, which is handling arrangements.
James “Jim” L. Layton Obituary: What We Know
The available obituary information includes:
- Full name: James “Jim” L. Layton
- Age: 83
- Born: November 10, 1942
- Birthplace: Clarksburg, West Virginia
- Died: September 19, 2026
- Place of death: Bridgeport, West Virginia
- Parents: Fred Layton and Mildred Peters Layton
- Late wife: Judith Saliga Layton
- Marriage: 50 years
- Son: Stefan Layton
- Brother: Fred Layton
- Career: Engine repair and manufacturing; retired from Pratt Whitney in 2008
- Interests: Hunting, fishing, radio-controlled airplanes and drag racing
- Drag-racing nickname: “Flying Hog”
- Cause of death: Not specified in the obituary
- Final wishes: Cremation
These details are consistent with the obituary published by Davis Funeral Home and other obituary listings.
A Final Tribute to James “Jim” L. Layton
The passing of James “Jim” L. Layton at age 83 marks the loss of a longtime member of the Bridgeport community.
Born in Clarksburg in 1942, Jim built a life that combined hard work, family, friendship, humor, and personal passions.
His professional career included years at several engine-repair businesses before he joined Pratt Whitney, where he worked until his retirement in 2008.
Away from work, Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, radio-controlled airplanes, and drag racing. His identity as the “Flying Hog” reflected the enthusiasm he brought to the racing community.
He also leaves behind memories of a 50-year marriage to his late wife, Judith, as well as the family members and lifelong friends who remained important throughout his life.
Jim’s quick wit, generosity, and ability to make people laugh will remain part of the memories held by those who knew him.
James “Jim” L. Layton will be remembered as a devoted family member, longtime worker, friend, racing enthusiast, outdoorsman, and man whose humor brought laughter to those around him. May his family and friends find comfort in the memories they shared with him.
May Jim Layton rest in peace.