Wayne Arley Payne

Wayne Arley Payne of Caro, age 91, passed away Sunday, April 28, 2024, at Ascension St. Mary’s in Saginaw. Wayne was born June 17, 1932, in Allegan, the son of the late William Edward and Fern Helen (Sweet) Payne. Wayne honorably served his country in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division, and later went on to dedicate over thirty years of work at Bill Smith Sand and Gravel until his retirement. On January 11, 1985, Wayne married the former Josephine (Rendon) Romain and the couple shared nearly forty years of love, laughter, and companionship. In his spare time, Wayne found joy in the great outdoors, spending countless hours fishing and camping at Fletcher’s Pond and riding his Kawasaki Mule through the countryside with his faithful K9 companion, Shelby. He loved to mow his meticulously kept lawn and frequented Albrecht Auctions, invariably in search of treasures and good bargains. Wayne was always the first to rise in the morning to start the coffee, greeting each day with optimism and warmth.

Wayne is survived by his loving wife, Josephine Payne; his children, David (Teresa) Payne, Sharon (Richard) Brown, Lisa (Bob) McNutt, Dan (Kristy) Payne, and Greg (Bradley) Payne; Josephine’s children, Ray (Donna) Romain, Cindy (Mark) Partlo, Randy (Cathy) Romain, and Dave (Tina) Romain; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a sister, Marie Meints. In addition to his parents, Wayne was preceded in death by a son, Bruce Payne; and siblings, Bob, Paul, Emerson, and Art Payne.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 3, 2024, at the Ransford Collon Funeral Home in Caro with Rev. Michele Hile officiating. Military honors will be afforded by the U.S. Army and Caro American Legion Post #7. Wayne’s family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the Cass River Pet Friendz.