Edgar “Howard” Layfield

“Radar” • Grandaddy

March 26, 1963 – September 9, 2026

Edgar “Howard” Layfield, 63, affectionately known to many as “Radar” and most lovingly as “Grandaddy,” was a hardworking man of faith, a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and a man who loved his family deeply.

Born on March 26, 1963, in Rochelle, Georgia, Howard was raised in Wilcox County, the son of the late Oscar and Susie Belle Layfield. He was the youngest of nine children, growing up surrounded by a large family of brothers and sisters.

Howard spent much of his life working hard and providing for his family. He worked as a truck driver and farm hand, and farming was a big part of the life he knew and loved. Over the years, he helped farm watermelons, peanuts, corn, cotton, and many other crops. He understood the meaning of an honest day’s work and wasn’t afraid to get his hands dirty.

When his children were younger, Howard also served as a deacon in his church. His faith was an important part of his life and the foundation upon which he helped raise his family.

When the work was done, Howard enjoyed the things that made life good. He loved hunting, fishing, farming, being outdoors, and spending time with his family. Whether he was in the woods, near the water, working the land, or simply surrounded by the people he loved, Howard was happiest enjoying the life he had built.

Howard leaves behind his son, Jason Layfield and his wife, Desire Layfield, and their children, Audrie Layfield and her fiancé, Bryson Halbrook; Zoey Layfield; and Sawyer Layfield. He also leaves behind his precious great-granddaughter, Saylor “Ann” Halbrook, who brought a special kind of joy to her Grandaddy’s life.

He is also survived by his daughter, April Jones, and her children, Hannah Fields and Maddie Jones; his sister-in-law, Dale Layfield; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Susie Belle Layfield, and all eight of his siblings, R.H. Layfield, Ben Layfield, Duce Layfield, Vernel Timmons, Ruthie Layfield, Betty Jo Layfield, Jim Layfield, and Dorothy Ann Layfield.

To some, he was Howard. To others, he was Radar. But to the ones who loved him most, he was Dad and Grandaddy.

His family will remember the stories, the laughter, the lessons, the days spent hunting and fishing, the years of working the land, and all of the ordinary moments that now mean more than words can say.

And as his family says goodbye, the Alan Jackson song “I Want to Stroll Over Heaven with You” carries a special meaning—a beautiful reminder of the hope that this goodbye is not forever. One day, there will be another walk together, another conversation, and a reunion where there are no more goodbyes.

The truck may be parked, the fields may be quiet, and the hunting and fishing trips may have come to an end, but Grandaddy’s story continues through the family he loved and the memories he leaves behind.

Until we stroll over Heaven with you, Grandaddy.
You will be loved, remembered, and missed more than words could ever say.