08/27/2026
Becky Layton, our beloved coworker and dear friend, along with her husband, Bruce, and their sons, Joseph and Daniel, are facing an unimaginable loss after a severe thunderstorm changed everything in the middle of the night.
Lightning struck the second story of the Layton home, igniting the roof. The fire quickly spread, eventually causing the second story to collapse and leaving their home destroyed. In a matter of hours, the place they called home—and so much of what it held—was destroyed. This has been their home since 2009.
Becky and Bruce are now trying to find their footing in the midst of shock, loss, and uncertainty, while beginning the overwhelming process of figuring out what comes next.
Anyone who knows the Laytons knows the kind of people they are. They are one of the first to show up when someone else is hurting or needs help, offering kindness, compassion, encouragement, and steady support without ever expecting anything in return. They both have spent so much of their life taking care of others. Now it is our opportunity to surround Becky and Bruce with that same love and care.
Donations will help with immediate necessities, meals, insurance deductibles, and everyday expenses while they are displaced from their home, as well as restoration of belongings that may still be salvageable, and expenses associated with repairing and rebuilding once insurance assessments are completed.
There is a long and difficult road ahead, but Becky and Bruce do not have to walk it alone. Any amount of support will make a meaningful difference. And if you are unable to donate, simply sharing this fundraiser can help tremendously.
Please keep Becky and Bruce in your thoughts and prayers as they begin the process of recovering from this devastating loss and rebuilding their home and their lives.
Bruce retired from Gulf Coast Community College after 30 years in multiple roles with the majority of those roles as an instructor, and Becky also had a long career at the college before becoming the manager of Viagio Travel. They both have lived their lives in service to others and known and loved by the entire community college family. Becky grew up in Long Beach and went to Long Beach High School, and is the former Becky Wood, daughter of Robert and Carol Wood of Long Beach and sister of Michele Wood. Their sons are Joseph and Daniel Layton.
Becky Layton, our beloved coworker and dear friend, along with her husband, Bruce, are facing … Payten Smith needs your support for Help Bruce & Becky Rebuild
