Layne Jessie Chitan, 63, of Odon, Indiana, passed away surrounded by loved ones, October 12, 2026, at his home. He was born on December 24, 1962, in Grenada in the Caribbean, to Clifton Jeremiah and Felicity (Mason) Chitan. Layne married the love of his life, Karen S. (Fleary) Chitan on July 22, 1990.

Layne was a devoted man of God, serving as a Pastor with the Seventh-Day Adventist Church for many years until his retirement. He continued a path of ministry, serving as a Chaplain and Missionary until his death. Layne was also a Masterguide. Along with his spiritual service, Layne also worked as a teacher and civil engineer. Outside of work, Layne was a beloved family man, traveling and supporting his family’s worship ministry all over the world.

Family left to cherish the memories of Layne include his wife, Karen Chitan; children, Kaiziah Chitan, Kayandra Chitan, L. Jesse Chitan, L. Jayden Chitan, Karlainah Chitan; adopted children, Kinda Williams, Nicole Q., Lavinia Nyagaka and Gordon Lindsay; four siblings, uncles and aunts, several nieces, nephews, and cousins, and many devoted friends and loved ones.

Layne was preceded in death by his parents and one brother.

Funeral services to honor the life of Layne will be at 11:00 AM on Thursday, November 5, 2026 at the Simon J. Graber Community Building, 9164 E 875 N, Odon, Indiana, with Pastor Gordon Lindsay officiating. Layne will be laid to rest at Bethel Mennonite Church Cemetery in Odon.

Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Wednesday, November 4, 2026 at Meng Family Funeral Home, 616 E. Elnora Street, Odon, IN and from 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM on Thursday, November 5, 2026 at the Simon J. Graber Community Building in Odon.

Memorial contributions in memory of Layne can be made to Kasda Global Ministries, Inc. Envelopes will be available at Meng Family Funeral Home in Odon.

Arrangements and care were entrusted to Meng Family Funeral Home in Odon. Condolences and memories may be sent to the family at www.mengfuneralhome.com or at www.thechitans.com/layne.