David Henry Layne, age 79, of Tallahassee, passed away on November 2, 2023. David was born on October 22, 1944, to Henry and Sarah (Roberts) Bickner in Jacksonville, FL. He served his country as a Lieutenant in the United States Army. He attended Lynchburg University in Virginia and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and earned his Master’s Degree in Ecology from the University of Tennessee. David spent his life helping preserve Florida’s lands and wildlife while working at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and later with Tall Timbers Research Station ensuring the conservation of wild native lands. He was also an organ transplant recipient of two lungs in 2012 from the University of Florida Shands Hospital Transplant Unit, which allowed him over ten more years with his family and friends. He is survived by his wife Denise Layne of Tallahassee; son Adam Layne of Tallahassee; son Drew Layne (Anna) of Indian Harbour Beach, FL; stepson Kyle Green (Christy) of Shelby, NC (step-grand-daughter Katelyn); brother J. Bruce Bickner (Sabrina) of Green Cove Springs, FL; sister Nancy Phillips (John “Red”) of Pine Mountain, GA; and many nieces and nephews. David was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed gatherings of family and friends, cooking, reading, painting, traveling, walks in the woods or on the shore, and watching wildlife and the night sky. He loved to say, “Every day’s a good day. Life’s too short — enjoy every minute you have!” In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Tall Timbers, 13093 Henry Beadel Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32312.
David was a friend and an inspiration for over a decade. I met him through our lung transplant support group. He was a support to me in my own transplant journey, and a source of kindness and advice. I remember him for his kindness, his scientific intelligence, and his love of his wife and family. He was a good man and my wife and I will miss him.