In the Spotlight: Florence Layton

Nurses don’t just take care of patients’ medical needs. They provide mental and emotional support as well.

Florence Layton celebrated her 15th year as a nurse at The Orchards at Bartley Assisted Living in Jackson in February 2020. She not only cares for the residents, but also uplifts their spirits with her musical talent.

Florence began playing the guitar in high school, but after she graduated she entered nursing school and the workforce, leaving her little time to pursue her hobby. After hearing a song play at her dentist’s office in January 2017, she recalled how much she missed playing the guitar and wanted to get back to it.

“I found the papers from high school in my records and started from page one and have been playing ever since” said Layton.

Florence has turned her hobby into a musical outlet for the residents, especially during the pandemic. She goes to their rooms and provides entertainment, even taking requests to learn new songs such as Sweet Caroline and By the Time I get to Phoenix.

Florence is known for her charming personality and great attitude. She even volunteered at the request of the residents to play for them on her day off.

“I have never seen her with a bad attitude, she is always smiling, a great worker, and puts the needs of the residents first,” stated Jalen Ramos, executive director of The Orchards at Bartley. “We are lucky to have her.”