Richard T. Layton of New Milford, CT passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026. Richard, aka Richie, RT, Uncle Richie, Mr. Layton, R2, Dad, and Pops lived a full, fun, and successful life in his 92 years.

Born April 23, 1934 in Danbury CT, he was the son of Theodore C. and Loretta (Bielaczyc) Layton. Richie grew up in Danbury, CT and Great Barrington, MA; sharing many great stories about his newspaper routes as a boy. This is undoubtedly when his strong work ethic developed and his keen entrepreneurial skills began.

He served for two years in the US Army stationed in Germany from 1953 to 1955. Upon returning home, he settled in New Milford, CT renting a room from the Stone Family. He quickly became a member of their family, a relationship he deeply cherished.

While working as an electrical apprentice, he started Richard T. Layton Co., LTD. in 1964 with a single used oil truck. The business grew over the years to include home delivery of oil, propane, pool water, and also contract trucking, product storage, and racing fuel. Layton Oil remains one of the oldest family-owned oil companies in the area.

His success in life both personally and professionally, was undeniably accomplished due in part to marrying Christine O’Connor in 1974. She was his devoted wife, best friend, business partner, and his rock for over 51 years. Together they built a beautiful family and a life to be proud of.

Richie was a fan of NASCAR, all things car racing, and pretty much whatever had a motor and wheels. He could drive, fix, and build just about anything, something he would boast about being able to do with only an 8th grade education. He proudly raced the 39 car for several years at the Danbury Racearena. Richie loved pulling tractors and snowmobiling, which were hobbies shared with his son, Teddy. He was once an avid water skier and founding member of the New Milford Water Ski Club in the 60’s. There are many cherished memories and funny stories shared with his friends and family, always including lots of adventure, laughs, a questionable amount of gas in the gas tank, and maybe some mischief.

He was a longtime member of many organizations, the New Milford Lions Club, Odd Fellows, the VFW, and an honorary member of the Water Witch Hose Company #2. He loved to support his community through sponsorships of little league sports, racing teams, and was a longtime supporter of the Bridgewater Fair and New Milford Fair Days.

Left to cherish his memory, funny sayings, silly charm, and sound advice are his wife Chris, his daughters; Jeannie Layton-Dudding (Jason) of New Castle, VA, Kristine S. Wheeler (Todd) of Roxbury, CT, his grandchildren; Layton Dudding, Evie Dudding, Alexxa Forrester, Rebecca Wheeler, Jacqui Shook (Brandon), his sisters; Beverly Webster, Beverly Balaz, Gloria Balaz and co-instigator of trouble, Mike Whitcomb. He was preceded in death by brother; Walter Layton and sister; Nancy Renna. He has also been reunited with his son Richard T. Layton Jr. ‘Ted’.

 

Richie was thought of as a Legend and rightfully so. If you were a part of his 92 year story, then you were lucky.

A private ceremony with the family will be held at a later date. To send condolences to the family please visit www.danburymemorial.com.

In lieu of flowers please consider making donations in memory of Richie to the Danbury Racearena by contacting The S.N.Y.R.A Reunion c/o Ann Marron 55 Oil Mill Rd Apt 16 Danbury, CT 06810 or the charity of your choice.

“The checkered flag has waved, your race is run. It’s time to put the car on the trailer and go home."