Philip Keith Layton, avid outdoors lover

Philip Keith Layton, 62, of Seaford, passed away Sunday, Aug. 13, 2017, after months of battling with metastatic melanoma. His devoted girlfriend and caregiver, Catherine (Candy) Jennings, was at his side.

Philip was born Jan. 6, 1955, the son of Vernon and Ruth Layton (deceased) of Seaford. He was also predeceased by his brother Ivan. Following his graduation from Seaford High School (1973), he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Phil frequently spoke of his favorite Navy assignment on Grand Turk Island where he learned to spearfish and snorkel. He continued his support of veterans and veterans activities after discharge and was a member of the American Legion Hurlock, Md. post. He continued to enjoy get-togethers with classmates/friends. Phil and Candy attended Crossroads Community Church.

Phil was an avid lover of the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting with his black-powder musket, and bow. He also loved to fish and kayak. He particularly enjoyed having Candy hunting, fishing and kayaking with him. He was entertained by the hummingbirds and squirrels he could see from his window during his illness. He loved his yard, overlooking the pond, where he learned to fish as a very young boy. Riding his Harley provided Phil with hours of enjoyment. Finding beautiful spots where he and Candy could set up a rustic camp was a favorite pastime.

Phil was employed by J.G. Parks & Son, Mardela Springs, Md., where he was delighted to work with his employer (Gary Parks) and co-workers. Phil greatly appreciated the visits, call and support during his illness made by Gary Parks and the co-workers as well as visits from friends and family.

Phil is survived by his loving companion Candy Jennings of Seaford, and her children; and by his daughter, Angela Marie Layton of Hampton, Va. (USAF, Joint Base Langley-Eustis). He is also survived by his stepdaughter, Nicole Abbate of Laurel; sister Daryl Layton Berryman (Mark) of Taneytown, Md.; brother Gary (Tommy Lynn) of Ashburn, Va.; and many other family members.

Phil's loved ones would like to express their appreciation to Delaware Hospice.

Funeral Services will be on Saturday, Aug. 19, at 11 a.m., at Crossroad Community Church, 20684 State Forest Road, Georgetown, where friends may call from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Burial will be in Carey's Cemetery, Millsboro.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Cranston Funeral Home to help with funeral expenses.

To leave a condolence visit www.cranstonfuneralhome.com.