Robert J Layden

.Mr. Robert J. “Bobby” Layden, age 77, a native of Manhatten Beach, CA and a resident of Mobile, AL for the past 35 years, departed this earthly life on Tuesday July 28, 2015 from complications related to his 12 year courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his faithful and loving partner of 27 years, Myrtle Black of Fairhope, AL, and her daughter Terri Dodson of Fairhope, AL, his brother, Lionel L. Layden (Mary Lou) of Mobile, AL, nieces Laura Cassidy (Bill) of Baton Rouge, LA, Lisa Pelham (Marc) of Mobile, AL,, Ginger Braun (Dan) of San Francisco, CA and 7 great nieces and nephews.

“Bobby” and his brother, Lionel, grew up traveling the world with their Air Force father, Colonel Lionel L. Layden Sr., and their mother Eleanor Giannini Layden. Living in China, Japan, Morocco, India, and many different cities in the United States gave Bobby the varied experiences that formed his “World View” and the tools he used to adjust to all the changes and challenges his life presented. A lover of people, he never met at stranger. Always optimistic and brave, he was appreciative of even the smallest kindness that came his way. His big smile and warm friendly ways won him many friends wherever he went. His positive outlook, strong will, and loving spirit were traits that served him well in life and in his final days. He will be greatly missed by his family, loved ones, and many friends.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Allen Memorial Home and Gentiva Hospice for providing Bobby the care he so desperately needed over the past 7 months. Gratitude is also extended to Providence Hospital Staff, Southern Cancer Center, and Pulmonary Associates for their exceptional care over the years. Funeral services will be held from the Chapel of Pine Crest Funeral Home on Thursday July 30, 2015 at 2PM. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 1 until 2PM. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Mitchell Cancer Center, 1660 Springhill Ave., Mobile, AL 36604 or your favorite charity.