Ernest “Ernie” Lee Layfield of Delmar passed away Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023 at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in Salisbury.
He was born April 12, 1950 in Delmar, Md., a son of the late Charles Samuel Layfield, Virginia Lee (Shockley) Christopherson and Robert Christopherson, who raised him as if he was his own son.
Ernie graduated from Delmar High School with the class of ’68. He spent his whole life on the family farm and continued to farm and raise chickens up until the time of his passing. He was happiest when out working the land and enjoying nature. Ernie loved traveling the shore to auctions, always looking for a deal for something to add to his collection of farm implements and lawn equipment. He was a life member of the Gumboro Volunteer Fire Company where he served for 31 years. He was also an active member of the Delaware State Fire Police and Sussex County Fire Police where he served as a past president. His memberships also included Line Church and Ernie was a charter member of the Delmar Ruritan Club.
He is survived by a sister, Peggy Ann Adams and husband, Sonny; brother Bill Layfield; sister, Ruth Wolfgang and husband Edwin; three nieces; six nephews; and several great nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Charles Edward Layfield.
A firemen’s funeral will be held on Saturday, Aug. 19 at 11 a.m. at the Gumboro Volunteer Fire Co., 37030 Millsboro Hwy., Millsboro, DE 19966, where a visitation will be held from 10 to 11. The Reverend Amy Willey will officiate. Interment will follow at Bethel Cemetery in Willards.
Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Gumboro Volunteer Fire Co., 37030 Millsboro Hwy., Millsboro, DE 19966 or to Line Community Church, 18725 Line Church Rd., Delmar, DE 19940.
Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.