Kay Viar Layne

Kay Viar Layne, 76, of Amherst, Virginia, passed away on Monday, April 6, 2026. She was born on October 18, 1949, in Lynchburg, Virginia, to the late Ralph and Mary Viar.

She is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Robert Lash Layne; her son/nephew, William Keith McFaden; her daughters, Carrie Dooley (Shane), Mary Kay Martin (Keith), and Lash Layne Pugh (RJ; her grandchildren, Daniel McFaden, Leah McFaden, Brian Cole McFaden, Caylee Preston, Corey Dooley, Chad Dooley, Charlie Dooley, Cash Dooley, Elizabeth Drewry, & Gracie Taylor; and her great-grandson, Hunter Preston. She is also survived by her siblings, Ralph "Sonny" Viar and Diane Tomlin.

In addition to her parents, Kay was preceded in death by her sister, Shirley Wilson, and her grandson, Rhett Pugh.

Kay's extended family included Brenda Ward, Henry "Butch" Layne, Thomas "Winnie" Layne, and Wanda Sandifer, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

Kay was a woman strong in her faith who truly loved life. She never met a stranger and had a gift for connecting with people wherever she went. Whether through laughter, storytelling, or simply offering a listening ear, Kay had a way of making others feel seen, understood, and supported. She loved sharing stories from her life and experiences, often using them to help others through difficult times with empathy, wisdom, and encouragement.

She was a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandmother, known affectionately as

"Nannie." Her family was the center of her world. She poured her heart into making sure her children and grandchildren experienced all that life had to offer. From softball fields to cheerleading events, dance recitals, and Girl Scout activities, Kay was always there, cheering them on, supporting them, and celebrating every milestone.

Kay was known for her humor and her ability to bring joy into any room. Her daughters often joked that Keith was her favorite, and that Cole held the title of favorite grandson, but in truth, she loved each member of her family deeply and equally.

Her legacy is one of faith, love, laughter, and unwavering support. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the many staff members at Fairmont Crossing for the wonderful care they provided Kay, and especially to Morgan Tyree for her kindness and compassion.

A celebration of Kay's life will be held at Madison Heights Baptist Church on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Family night will take place on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Madison Heights Baptist Church.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family.