Layne Allan Smith's Obituary
Layne was born on November 20th, 1945, in Clarion, Pennsylvania, to James and Mescal Smith. He moved to the Tampa Bay area with his family while a teenager and attended Dixie Hollins High School.
In 1970, Layne's future wife Basia, then living in New York, was introduced to him by her mother Josephine. Their relationship blossomed through heartfelt letters exchanged during this time, and they were married in 1971.
Layne embarked on various career paths, including roles as a ballroom dance instructor, stage magician, shipping director, and Postal worker. He was also deeply passionate about fly fishing, frequently sharing his expertise as a keynote speaker, exhibitor, and teacher at local fly fishing events. One of his proudest moments was having his fly pattern published in a dedicated fly tying magazine.
Upon retiring, Layne dedicated his time to his grandchildren, Trevohnta, Parker, and Vivian. He was also an active member of Holy Cross Catholic Church, serving as a eucharistic minister and bringing comfort to the sick through home visits.
Layne was preceded in death by his parents James and Mescal, and siblings James, Royanna, Randy and Bradley. He is survived by his beloved wife Basia, children Tina and Erik (wife Jessica), grandchildren Trevohnta (wife Theresa), Parker, and Vivian, great-grandchild Apollos (on the way), brother Tim Smith, sister Cheryl Ginsburg, and cherished nieces and nephews.
Services will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Monday, February 5th from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
What’s your fondest memory of Layne?
What’s a lesson you learned from Layne?
Share a story where Layne's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Layne you’ll never forget.
How did Layne make you smile?