RUTLAND — James B. Layden, 77, passed away at his home April 30, 2020, surrounded by his family. He was born in Rutland, Oct. 9, 1942, son of Elwyn and Margaret (Burke) Layden.
Known as ‘The Home Town Banker’ who helped many to get their start, Jim had a long banking career in Rutland, which included the Howard Bank, vice president of Rutland Savings Bank, vice president of Vermont National Bank and vice president of Vermont Mortgage Group. He retired from Banknorth in 2004.
Surviving are his wife of 55 years Claudia (Taggart) Layden of Rutland; a daughter, Robyn Layden Stein and son-in-law Eric Stein of Mountain View, Calif.; a brother, Algy (Elwyn) Layden of Middlebury; a granddaughter, Elyssa Stein of Mountain View, Calif.; a stepgrandson Matthew Stein of Ewing, N.J.; a stepgrandson Ryan Stein and wife Kimberly of Richmond, Va.; two step-great-grandchildren, Bryce and Bexley Stein; a sister-in-law, Janet Hughes and husband James of Pensacola, Fla.; and several deeply loved nieces and nephews and their families. He was predeceased by his parents and a sister, Maureen LaPenna.
A funeral mass and celebration of his life will be announced at a later date to be held in St. Peter’s Church in Rutland.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter’s Church, Convent Ave. Rutland VT 05701.
Arrangements are by the Clifford Funeral Home.◊