#LIVELIKELAYNE

The Layne Paul Gravois Foundation was created after the sudden passing of Layne Paul Gravois at the age of 21. He was set to graduate in May of 2022.

While on spring break with friends, Layne selflessly entered the waters in the Gulf of Mexico in Miramar Beach, Florida, on April 8th, 2021, attempting to rescue children who were drowning due to riptides. Layne ultimately sacrificed his life so that others could live.

Immediately after his passing, Layne’s friends arranged a memorial mass and rosary service in his honor. During the homily, Fr. Patrick Rivière mentioned three words that have held such meaning for his family: Hurt, Hope and Honor.

Loved ones would have to work through the
Hurt to have Hope and eventually work towards Honor. Three simple words used by Father Patrick in his homily have become the mantra for our foundation’s mission: “Live Like Layne."

Ironically, the gospel reading during that mass contained the verse from John 15:13 — “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”

Since the account created in lieu of flowers skyrocketed far beyond any expectations, Layne’s parents, Lenny and Kristi, used those funds to award the first Layne Paul Gravois Memorial Scholarship in HONOR of Layne.

In July of 2022, Layne was posthumously awarded the Carnegie Medal, North America’s highest honor for civilian heroism, for his selfless act of bravery.

Layne’s generosity didn’t end that day, though. As a registered organ donor, recipients were able to receive the gift of sight and critical heart valves and tissue. Layne also received Commendations from Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards and the Louisiana House of Representatives.