A 62-year-old Rocky Mount, Virginia woman has died following a tragic accident while on vacation in St. Augustine, The Citizen has learned.
Revered for her devotion to family and faith, Rita Layman’s life reflected service, love, and dedication to God, those who knew her wrote in an obituary.
The accident occurred on February 12, when Rita and her husband, Derron Layman, were biking on a trail in Palatka around 4:30 p.m. They had traveled to St. Augustine for a vacation and took a day trip to Putnam County.
According to family, they were riding with a group of friends and waited to cross a road. After their companions safely got to the other side, Rita entered the roadway and was struck by a vehicle that failed to yield, her relatives said.
She was transported to Orange Park Medical Center, where she remained in a coma until her death. Authorities are investigating the incident.
The family has set up a GoFundMe campaign to help cover medical bills, travel expenses, and rehabilitation costs. By Friday, the fundraiser had raised nearly $25,000.
Layman was born on August 15, 1963, to Taylor and Mayree Robertson and was a lifelong resident of Rocky Mount. She provided care for her parents until their passing and shared a close bond with her siblings, Ronnie, Becky, and Robert, her obituary stated.
She graduated from Franklin County High School in 1981 and worked for more than 30 years at the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, eventually managing the Martinsville office.
Through her work, she became a familiar and welcome presence in the Franklin and Henry County communities.
Layman was a devoted wife, marrying Derron on July 7, 2002, after dating since 1991.
“Derron was the rock and foundation on which she stood,” the obituary read.
Layman was a tirelessly dedicated mother to Billy and Chris Riddle and a grandmother to five grandchildren: Caedyn, Chloee, Claire, Benjamin, and Ella. She actively supported their school, sports, and church activities, her family said.
Faith played a central role in her life. Rita and Derron joined Redeeming Life Church PHC in September 2002, where she contributed to Bible studies, Sunday School, and numerous church fundraisers and events.
“Her void is felt, and she will be deeply missed,” her family said.
Funeral services will be held today in Rocky Mount.
