Joseph Layton Mauzé IV

Joseph Layton Mauzé IV, “Layton”, 64, passed away at his home on June 7, 2025. He was born on January 18, 1961 in Richmond, VA, the son of Harriet and Dr. Joseph Layton Mauzé III. Growing up, he was an adventurous and active child who enjoyed playing tennis and swimming. Layton spent the majority of his youth in Statesville where long lasting friendships were made. He attended The McCallie School in Chattanooga, TN and later graduated from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, AR where he became a diehard Razorback fan. While in Arkansas, he met and married Lynn Stewart. They had a daughter, Melissa “Elizabeth” Mauzé, who quickly became an enthusiastic Razorback fan alongside them.

Layton had a successful career as a corporate finance executive with General Parts, Inc. in Raleigh, NC. He was also a project manager at Eatman’s Carpets and Interiors in Raleigh, NC where his drive, humility, and eagerness to learn made him a highly respected leader. Later in life, he discovered joy and fulfillment in the culinary arts where his creativity and love for people came together. Most recently, he enjoyed catering in Charlotte, NC and Statesville, NC. He was never one to seek the title of 'chef,' though many would say he earned it through natural talent, especially his ability to grill and smoke meats to perfection.

Layton never met a stranger. His calming presence welcomed others with kindness and understanding. He had a wonderful sense of humor-his wit was subtle and sharp. He had a quiet and patient strength that touched everyone around him, especially his mother, whom he cared for until his passing. Layton enjoyed traveling with his sisters to new places to experience local cuisine. He found peace spending time in the mountains and coast with loved ones. What stood out most about Layton (and was undeniably evident) was his devotion to his daughter, Elizabeth. They especially loved taking road trips, doing home projects, and watching Arkansas games together. He also had a special love for his granddog Chance, who always put a big smile on his face.

Layton was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Joseph Layton Mauzé III. He is survived by his daughter, Elizabeth Mauzé of Asheville, NC and Lynn Mauzé of Beaufort, NC. He is also survived by his mother Harriet Mauzé of Statesville, NC, sisters Michelle Rokes of Statesville, NC and Mary Stratos (Paul) of Charlotte, NC, nieces Kate Hand (Robert, and their children Holt and Hayes) of Franklinton, NC, and Caroline Stratos of Charlotte, NC and nephew Nicholas Stratos of Miami, FL. Members of his extended family include Uncle George Mauzé of Napa, CA, Aunt Beth Hayes of Shreveport, LA, dear cousins Lesley Hayes, Lauren McDaniel and Leigh Mall, respectively from Louisiana and Texas, and brother-in-law, Dave Rokes of Bermuda Run, NC. Layton had many additional cousins across the United States as well.

Layton will be celebrated by friends and family on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 11am at First Presbyterian Church in Statesville, NC with Rev. Jeremy Cannada officiating. His burial will be privately held in family cemeteries in both Statesville, NC and Lexington, VA.

Donations can be made in Layton’s memory to The Healing Place – Raleigh (Healing Transitions, 1251 Goode St., Raleigh NC 27603). He was a compassionate friend to many there and made a powerful difference in the recovery of others.

Arrangements are in the care of Troutman Funeral Home.