Donald Payne

Donald W. Payne Loving Father Donald William Payne, age 85, joined his sweetheart, Betty, in the early morning hours of August 12, 2007 at his home. He left this human existence with his family surrounding him shoulder to shoulder and more love than could ever be expressed by mere words. Born October 30, 1921 in Pocatello, Idaho and raised in Fillmore, Utah. Don married his sweet wife, Betty Jane Miller June 30, 1943. Two weeks into their marriage Don was shipped out to serve his country proudly and the couple experienced their first painful separation of over 2 years. Plumber by trade, nicknamed Doc Payne, the Bathroom Physician. He was a hard working man who, even after a night of grief and despair and being weary to the bone, always did what needed to be done to take care of his family and friends giving them all that was his to give. He always did his best. Don had a unique knack for creating his own names for those he loved and making us laugh through life with his antics, even in our most challenging moments. Survived by his six children: Steve (Violet) Payne, Brenda (Curt) Alcorn, Cyndy (Bill) Davis, Darla McPherron, Tammie Towner and Stacey (Scott) Griffis; 21 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; sister, Helen (Darrell) Richey. Don and Betty danced their way through life with a beauty that amazed countless people. Betty passed from this life July 27, 2001. Once again the couple experienced the pain of separation. Don never passed a moment without aching to be together again with her. The joy in our sorrow is in knowing they are dancing together once again. Don left his family many treasured lessons, several he had no idea he was teaching. His children are honored to have served him in his last years. We listened and watched more than he thought, and we remember more than he ever realized. Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 16, 2007, 11:00 a.m. at the Bennion 4th Ward, 6100 South Kamas Drive (2480 W.). Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 15, 2007, 6-8 p.m. at McDougal Funeral Home, 4330 South Redwood Road and Thursday at the church, 10-10:45 a.m. prior to service. Interment, Redwood Memorial Estates.