Mearl G. Layton Sr., 67

FRANKFORD - Mearl G. Layton Sr. of Frankford passed away peacefully Monday, Oct. 30, 2006, in his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was 67.

Mr. Layton was born Feb. 13, 1939, son of the late Samuel L. and Hazel (Quillen) Layton.

He was a 1957 graduate of Lord Baltimore High School.

Mr. Layton was a lifelong owner, trainer and driver of harness horses, a school bus contractor with Layton Busing and a farmer.

He enjoyed all aspects of the harness horse business from his early teens. One of his most memorable horses was a 2-year-old filly named Teenie Bopper.

Mr. Layton was an avid fan of the local and college baseball teams that his sons played for and managed over the years.

His favorite pastime was spending time with his wife and family while traveling around the local region.

Mr. Layton was a member of the U.S. Trotting Association, Standard Bred Owners Association, Farm Bureau of Delaware and the Indian River School Bus Contractors.

He is survived by his loving wife, Helen (McCabe) Layton; and three sons, Mearl G. Layton Jr., Travis L. Layton and Samuel L. Layton.

Graveside services will be 11 a.m. Thursday in St. George's Cemetery, Clarksville.

Flowers are accepted or the family suggests donations in Mr. Layton's name to a charity of choice.

Arrangements by the Frankford Chapel of Melson Funeral Services.