Obituary of William T. Layton

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of William T. Layton, known to most as “Willy T.” or “Billy”, who left this world far too soon on September 10, 2025, at the age of 61.

Born on December 16, 1963, to William and Mary Layton in Highlands, New Jersey, Billy was raised alongside his sister, Michelle. From a young age, he was curious, bright, and full of life. He went on to earn an associate’s degree and began a career that reflected his passion for technology and innovation.

Billy dedicated many years of his professional life to XTIUM, an IT solutions company, where he applied his technical expertise and sharp problem-solving skills to help create solutions that reached across the globe. He was respected not only for his intelligence and work ethic, but also for his unwavering commitment to those around him.

But outside of work, music was Billy’s true Passion. A gifted guitarist with a lifelong love of sound and stage, he was a founding member of several bands, including his first, The U.S. Band, where he honed his craft and even had the memorable opportunity to meet Willie Nelson. Over the years, he played with Bad Jack, Smash it All, The Garden State Drifters, and The Michael Davis Band. Through music, Billy found not just creative expression, but community—musicians who became lifelong friends and chosen family. Billy was also a lover of a good time and could often be found in a jam session with his friends, “Legend”, Tom and Mark grinding out new music in his basement recording studio.

It was through this shared musical world that he met Laura Stalter, his Wife. Their bond, forged through rhythm, lyrics, and long nights in the studio, blossomed into a love that spanned years. Billy and Laura’s connection was built on mutual respect, shared passion, and deep affection. They built a life full of love, laughter, and music.

Billy was also a car enthusiast, proud owner of his Mustang GT, and a firm believer that beauty could be found in all things fast and loud. Whether on stage or behind the wheel, Billy lived with a sense of passion and purpose.

He will be remembered always for his kindness, his quick wit, and the deep loyalty he showed to his friends and family. Billy had a way of making people feel heard, understood, and valued…… His presence was a gift to all who knew him.

Billy is survived by his beloved wife, Laura Layton, and their faithful hound, Jackson. He also leaves behind his loving sister, Michelle Figueredo (Tim Kuhn); his cherished niece, Piper Figueredo; his precious aunt, Annette Bukowski; his caring cousins, Sally Stoneham (John), Ray Bukowski (Jenn); cherished nephews Brendan, Luke and Logan, Steve Layton, and Steve’s daughters, Jennifer and Jessica; treasured nephews, Ed Finlay (Mandy), and their sons, Michael Finlay (Maddie) and Alex Finlay (Kelly); Doug Finlay (Bridgette Carlton); Matthew, Danny and Meghan; his dear friend, Brian Gill and Brian’s daughter, Hayden; his longtime friend, Matt Rodden and his wife, Diane; along with countless friends, bandmates, and colleagues who will hold his memory close. Billy's life was a symphony of dedication, creativity, and love.

If you would like to contribute to Billy’s memory in your own way, in lieu of flowers, please consider making a charitable contribution to the Save the Music Foundation. Memorial Donations can be made via inmemof.org.

Please join us in celebrating this life from 4 to 7 PM on Wednesday, September 17, at Norman Dean Home for Services. Another celebration of his life will be held at a later date, at a location in South Jersey where Billy grew up, to accommodate the family and friends that are unable to travel for this service. All are welcome, and we encourage you to use this page to leave a condolence, share a memory, or light a candle to continue to let Billy’s light shine!