Charles Morgan Layne

Charles Morgan Layne was born on October 13, 1941, in Huntsville, Alabama, to Harry Clayborne Layne (“Doc”) and Frances Lucille Moore Layne.

He was known for his hard work, humor, and wisdom. Charles never met a stranger when you met him, you loved him instantly. He was a jokester who enjoyed stirring things up, and he had a gift for bringing laughter wherever he went. Above all, he deeply loved his family and friends, and they loved him just as fiercely in return.

Charles proudly served as a firefighter for the City of Huntsville for 32 years, retiring from the Huntsville Fire Department in 1995. He had a lifelong passion for horses and farming, but his greatest joy came from camping and trail rides with family and friends.

He is survived by his four children: LeAnn (Chuck) Wheeler, Kelly Poblete, Jason (Laura) Layne, Sharon (Jimmy) Harper; as well as his close nephew, Roger Duncan. His grandchildren include Chris Lindsey, Christina Lindsey Wilson, Nicky Lindsey Davis, Ashley Wheeler, Charles D. Wheeler, Carter Poblete, Bradley Layne, Brock Layne, Breanna Layne, Brylee Layne, Jaimie Harper, and Jessica Harper Gaines. He was also blessed with 14 great-grandchildren.

Charles is survived by three siblings: Kenneth Layne, Jimmy Layne, and Camilla Dawn Layne O’Barr. All his family roots remain in Huntsville, Alabama. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry Clayborne Layne (“Doc”) and Frances Lucille Moore Layne; two brothers, Billy Layne and Pete Layne; and three sisters, Martha Layne League, Carolyn Layne Duncan, and Janice Layne Clark.

Charles will be remembered for the laughter he shared, the wisdom he imparted to his children, and the sayings that became part of his legacy. His dedication, determination, and strength left a lasting mark on his family. To those who knew him, he was the strongest man they had ever known.

His famous words, often spoken with a grin, were: “Don’t tell me what to do.”

No memorial services are planned at this time.