Richard Charles (Dick) Payne of Athens, Georgia died unexpectedly Tuesday August 8 at his home while resting in his favorite chair. He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, May Humm Payne, whom he devoted the last decade of his life for her home bound care.
A native of Rochester, NY, he was the son of the late William Charles and Gladys Pett Payne. Dick and his father achieved their Eagle Scout designation together during Dick’s high school years. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Rochester where he starred on the baskeball team.
Dick was a veteran of the Korean War and the United States Army. After returning from Korea, he attended the University of Denver and earned his MBA.
Dick joined Westinghouse in 1956 and moved to Athens in 1958. He retired from his executive position after 36 years of service to devote more time to his family, hobbies and the Georgia Bulldawgz. Dick was known as the eyes of the Georgia Bulldogs for over 40 years sitting to the left of the iconic Larry Munson.
Funeral services will be Friday , August 11, 2017 at 1:00 pm at the Chapelwood United Methodist Church, where he was a founding member. Family will receive friends following the service at the fellowship hall.
Survivors include his wife, May Payne, his sister, Thelma Volzer: his daughters Betsy Boulton, Margie (Chris) Pearce, Karen(Daryl) Newman, grandsons Tyler (Jennifer) Kassinger, Payne (Rachel) Kassinger, Creighton Kassinger, C.C. Pearce V, granddaughters, Ashleigh Boulton, Kelly (Ben) Martin, Emily(Blake ) Muldrow , great granddaughters, Emma , Collins and Annabelle Rose.

Thank you to Brightstar caregivers, especially Shannon Hardy and Andrea Johnson for their compassionate comfort for Dick and May over these last years.

Lord and Stephens EAST is arranging the funeral. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Chapelwood United Methodist Church, who has been so supportive during this special time. 100 Janice Drive Athens, Georgia 30606.

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