In Memoriam: Layton Word

EVANSVILLE, Ind. — Layton Grant Word, 95, of Evansville, Ind., passed away Dec. 21, 2024. Word founded Arrow Termite & Pest Control in 1970 during the time he was still working the evening shift at a local bakery. 

According to his obituary, he grew Arrow during the daytime and any additional free time. Layton retired in 1990 and passed the company down to his son, Stan Word. Today, the company is in it's fourth generation, run by Layton's grandson, Derrick Word, granddaughter Amy Wathen - Hackworth and great-grandson, Cory Word, to carry on the family-owned and operated business.

Arrow Termite & Pest Control has been voted “Best Pest Control Company” in the Evansville Courier & Press Readers Choice Awards receiving both Platinum and Gold awards multiple years.

After retirement, Layton pursued his passion of owning, training and racing standard pace horses at Riverside Downs, Fairmount Park, Louisville Downs, The Red Mile, Raceway Park, and Dover Downs. He enjoyed traveling to train and compete. One of his favorite horses was Rambling Hillbilly. He sold out of this business venture in 1996.

A public celebration of Layton’s life will take place at Sat., Jan, 25, at noon, Howell General Baptist Family Life Center, 1520 Delmar Ave, Evansville, Ind., 47712.