Bobby Ray Layell

Bobby Ray Layell, 79, of Elkin, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2025. He was born January 4, 1946, in Elkin, NC, to Coolidge and Pauline Ingool Layell. A proud graduate of Elkin High School, Class of 1964, Bobby lived a life defined by hard work, family, and friendship.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Priscilla Sparks; her husband, Clyde; and their youngest son, Clyde Jr.

Bobby is survived by his oldest daughter, Lisa Rogers and husband Joel, along with two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his son, Michael Layell and wife Michele, along with five grandchildren and the beloved grandpups, Harley and River. His daughter, Shannon Routh and husband J.J. also carry forward his legacy, along with his cherished grandpup, Miss Opal. In addition, he is remembered by his stepdaughter, Beverly Butts and husband Randy, their two children, and one great-grandchild. Bobby leaves behind a wide circle of extended family and friends who will cherish his memory.

A man of entrepreneurial spirit, Bobby’s career spanned many ventures. He was the manager of the very first Food Lion grocery store in Charlotte, NC, and though his entrepreneurial path took him many places, he eventually returned to Food Lion, where he retired after more than 20 years of service. He was also proud to have served his country in the Army National Guard.

Beyond his professional life, Bobby will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, deep faith, and love for community. He treasured time spent with his friend Bonnie, whose care and friendship meant so much in recent years. He also enjoyed the fellowship of the “gazebo gang” at Cooper Terrace apartments, where many good memories were made.

Bobby’s life was rich with love, laughter, and resilience. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, 1432 US-21, State Road, NC 28676, with his best friend, Pastor Jim, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Bobby by making a donation to his favorite charity, Teal Diva, a nonprofit started by his daughter Shannon after her ovarian cancer diagnosis. Donations may be made online at https://www.tealdiva.org/online-giving/ or by mailing a check to:  Teal Diva; 1135 Four Lakes Drive, Suite E, Matthews, NC 28105.

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