Louise Layne

Louise Allene Layne was born March 3, 1929 to James Mitchell and Blanche Merchant in Columbus, Ohio. She passed away peacefully at the age of 96 into the loving arms of our Lord and Savior on Friday, April 9, 2025 surrounded by loved ones.

A bright and driven student, Louise attended Central High School where she excelled academically and participated in such clubs as the National Honor Society. After graduation, her dedication to learning continued as she began her nursing career working for Dr. Harry Jefferson while obtaining special training to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. Dr. Jefferson considered Louise as a daughter and was very impressed by her ability to learn every aspect of his office at a young age. With grace and determination, she ran the office with efficiency performing patient intakes, blood draws and reading x-rays. She later gained employment at St. Anthony’s Hospital. She was well known among patients due to her no-nonsense approach, “telling it like it was”, and unwavering commitment to patient care.

At the early age of 19, she married Marion Young. The two were married for a number of years and that union produced a son, Douglas Richard Young. She later found love again and married William C. Layne where she gained two loving step daughters, Brenda Tejada and Betty Smith. Shortly thereafter, Louise’s family was expanded through adoption of her sister Kayla Patterson. It did not take long for them to become a blended family.

A woman of many passions, Louise had an undeniable flair for fashion! She made sure to tune into QVC and HSN daily. In fact, all of her closets throughout her home were full with the latest fashion trends in dresses, skirts, bracelets, rings, necklaces, hosiery, coats and scarves just to name a few. This was not only limited to clothing, as many could find a number of multiple gadgets at her home. She also enjoyed entertaining family and friends often playing cards and watching her favorite soap operas.

Louise attended St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Diocese of Columbus where she found purpose, strength and community. She was actively involved in the Prayer Chain Ministry and gave her heart and time to a number of events. She lived her life with style, substance, and an open heart. Her journey touched many, and her memory will continue to inspire those who had the joy of knowing her. She will be missed greatly by her family and friends.

Louise is preceded in death by father, James Mitchell; mother Blanche Merchant; husbands Marion Young and William Clyde Layne; brothers Tommy and Ernest “Bud” Mitchell.

She leaves to cherish her memory son Douglas Young, step daughters Brenda (Jose) Tejada and Betty Smith, sister Kayla (Tony), Richardson, a host of nieces and nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren.