Memorial trees planted for:

Gregory Layne

Everyone’s dear friend, Gregory “Greg” Layne, age 74, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at Marion General Hospital, following complications from a motor vehicle accident earlier that night in Plymouth, IN, and a courageous five-year battle with leukemia. On February 23, 1951, Greg was born in Marion, Ohio, the second of three children of the late Billy and Pauline (Robbins) Layne. He graduated from Marion Harding High School in the class of 1969. After graduating, Greg enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard, serving six years, including time stationed at Fort Gordon, GA. In 1973, Greg committed to protecting the Marion community he so loved, joining the Marion County Sheriff’s Department. In 1986, he helped develop the MARMET Drug Task Force, and throughout the department, he was endearingly known as “JJ.” He served for 26 years in many capacities, retiring in 1999 as a detective. In January 1999, Greg joined his father-in-law, Joe Lupica, at Lupica Motors as general manager and auto salesman. Selling cars turned out to be the perfect fit—he got to shoot the breeze and tell jokes all day long with his friends while helping them find just the right car. After Lupica Motors, he worked for Mathews Hyundai and later McDaniel Toyota, where he sold cars for 13 years before retiring in 2021. Over his 22-year car-selling career, Greg was often a top salesman, known for his unmatched ability to connect with customers and friends alike. Thanks to his countless friendships, he kept selling cars informally right up to the end. One fateful night, Greg met the love of his life, Patti Lupica, at the OK Café—and from there, the rest was history. They were married on September 20, 1991, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Twenty years later, they reaffirmed their marriage at St. Mary Church in Marion, after Greg was baptized at age 60 and became a member. They truly cherished their 33 years together and were always by each other’s side. Greg was a member of St. Mary’s Church, and he was also a 3rd Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus. As a member of FOP Lodge 24 where he once served as president, and was also a proud member of the Eagles and Moose Lodges. Greg loved helping friends find the right vehicle, and enjoyed watching college football, drag races, NASCAR, and—when he was younger—riding motorcycles. His love for cars led to his love for garages. He loved hanging out in his garage, parked next to whatever his latest ride was, watching TV, and waiting for a friend to drop by. His garage antics included handing out candy to the kids, treats to the neighborhood dogs, and cold beers to his friends. It’s also where he told his best jokes. Though Greg had a great sense of humor, he had an even bigger heart. He was one of the most selfless people you could meet, and his generosity knew no bounds. No matter the circumstance, Greg would go out of his way to help a friend in need. His classic parting line was: “If you need something, call me.” Above all else, Greg treasured his family. He cherished every moment with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He loved cooking for them—they said “he could cook a mean breakfast.” He also loved going out to dinner with family and friends. During his five-year battle with leukemia, Greg’s strength of character truly shone. Despite monthly chemo and frequent hospital stays, he never once complained or said “poor me.” Instead, he’d flash that ornery grin and ask how you and your family were doing. He will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him. Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Patti Lupica Layne of Marion; four children: Brandon (Amy) Layne of Haines City, FL, Ara (Bridget) Bruno of Pittsburgh, PA, Ariana (Ben) Niver of Cincinnati, OH, and Lindsay Hagemann; five adored grandchildren: Norah and Wyatt Layne, Sloan, Jack, and Zoe Niver; and numerous grand-pups; two siblings: Rick (Amy) Layne of Little Rock, AR, and Rita Lehner of Marion, OH; a sister-in-law, Joy Lupica; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Greg was preceded in death by his parents; two brother-in-laws: Michael Lehner and Michael Lupica; and his father- and mother-in-law, Joseph and Joyce Lupica. Calling hours will be held from 4–7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Cornerstone Alliance Church, 2010 Marion-Marysville Rd (SR 4), Marion, OH. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at St. Mary Church, 251 N. Main St., Marion, OH, with Father Edward Shikina officiating. Military honors, provided by the Marion County United Veterans Council, will follow at the church. Burial will take place at a later date in Marion Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Spirit of Hope Fund, c/o Marion General Hospital Foundation, 1000 McKinley Park Drive, Marion, OH 43302 (https://www.ohiohealth.com/locations/hospitals/marion-general-hospital/make-a-gift). The fund was started in 2013 by former Marion County Sheriff John H. Butterworth and his wife, Phyllis, to assist area cancer patients. On behalf of the family, a heartfelt thank-you to all the friends and family who supported Greg at all hours through his battle with leukemia. They are especially grateful to Dr. Alice Mims, Shinal Patel, NP, and the entire oncology team at The James Cancer Center for the extra years they got to share with Greg. Snyder Funeral Homes of Marion are honored to serve Greg’s family and your favorite memories and condolences may be shared with them by visiting www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.

February 23, 1951 - June 25, 2025

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Gregory Layne

9 Trees have been planted in memory of Gregory Layne.

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Memorial Trees

Anonymous

July 07, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Gregory Layne has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree

God bless.

Jeannie and John Tarkington

July 06, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Gregory Layne has been arranged by Jeannie and John Tarkington. Plant a tree

We will miss you, Greg... with love to Patti and her family -

Daniel Little

July 02, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Gregory Layne has been arranged by Daniel Little. Plant a tree

Extending you my warmest wishes, deepest sympathies and condolences for your loss. I know Greg will be missed dearly.

The Urology Group Blue Ash

July 01, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Gregory Layne has been arranged by The Urology Group Blue Ash. Plant a tree

Our deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family during this time of loss. We are all thinking of you.

Wren and CJ Hawkins

June 30, 2025

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of Gregory Layne has been arranged by Wren and CJ Hawkins. Plant a tree

These trees are planted in the memory of Greg. May these trees grow tall and strong, a living tribute to the joy you brought into the world.

Anonymous

June 29, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Gregory Layne has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree

May your memory be eternal, Greg. You had a gentle heart, and a beautiful soul. My condolences, Patti. Strength and peace.

The Gibsons, Christi, David & Tracy, Cameron & Julie

June 28, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Gregory Layne has been arranged by The Gibsons, Christi, David & Tracy, Cameron & Julie. Plant a tree

Greg will be so missed. We loved him dearly. Our hearts break for you all.