Thomas Edward Layman

Thomas Edward Layman, age 71 of Hiawassee, passed away Saturday, March 1, 2014 in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Mr. Layman was born on May 17, 1942 in Simpson County, Kentucky to the late Dewey & Edith (Tabb) Layman. Growing up with 8 siblings made money real tight on the farm that he lived on, but one thing he never lacked was family love and support. They were always there for each other. The love of family and other farm values carried on into his adult life as well. He loved his family and spending time with them. Tom enjoyed playing all sorts of games from board games to card games, and lots of dominoes. With a fondness of travel, Tom explored some great places but none was more important than his beloved mountains right here in Hiawassee. These were the most wonderful 10 years of his life. A proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, Tom had served during the Vietnam War.

Tom was a man of God and a living example of how to walk with the Lord. He served as a pastor for many years, but he was always ministering to others and putting them before himself. He always wanted to help people even when it threatened his job. Service on mission trips was important to Tom, but everyday was an opportunity to share the love of Jesus Christ with all those he came in touch with. He is best described as a mentor and an encourager. Something funny he liked to do whether you were two or thirty two; if you were sitting next to him with bare feet he always liked to tell the "little piggies" story with your toes. His story was a little different from others and was always sure to brighten your day! He loved to collect hugs instead of handshakes especially when he worked at the backstage door at the Grand Ole Opry as a security guard.

He leaves behind to treasure his memory and share in his legacy: loving wife of 52 years, Judith Kennedy Layman; daughter & son-in-law, Claudia & John Bates; son & daughter-in-law, David & Angie Layman; son, Jim Layman; and grandchildren, Amanda McKenzie, Wesley Bates, Evan Bates, Christian Layman, Tyler Layman, Zander Layman and Deacon Layman.

Celebration of Life services were held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 6, 2014 from McConnell Memorial Baptist Church with Rev. Phil Heard officiating. A heartfelt eulogy was given by Chris Hoffman. Special music was presented by Hannah Kennedy and pianist Wayne Hundley. Inurnment followed the services in Osborn Cemetery. The family had a gathering with friends at the church from 12 p.m. until the service hour on Thursday.

Gifts of love in memory of Tom may be made to: McConnell Memorial Baptist Church - memo line: "Together We Will" Building Fund, P.O Box 235, Hiawassee, GA 30546.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Cochran Funeral Home of Hiawassee. Please share your fond memories and condolences with Tom's family on our website, www.cochranfuneralhomes.com.