Richard Anthony Payne was one of a kind. He had an infectious laugh and an amazing spirit. He was loved beyond measure by his family and friends. On Tuesday, November 18, 2025, he went home to be with our Lord. He was 69 years old.
Richard lived with a sense of wonder. Skiing on Lake Ned, hunting on numerous outings with his buddies, and days on the water fishing brought him so much joy. The outdoor paradise that was our Florida home gave him the perfect backdrop to live a life filled with so many earthly blessings.
And speaking of earthly blessings, dogs and the Florida Gators have a permanent place in Richard’s heart. From our first dog Linus to all the other baby dogs in his life, he was an amazing dog brother and dog dad. Today they are rejoicing on the “Rainbow Bridge” and are united forever in heaven. If there are football angels, Richard will be cheering the loudest. GO Gators and Bucs. Glad you are up there on our side brother!
Over the years Richard had many careers. He worked in real estate, banking, and was a table chef at Disney’s Empress Lilly. But at his core, food was his passion. He was curious, adventurous, and generous with his culinary creations. His greatest joy was cooking with our mom and dad. The Payne kitchen was the heart of our family home. Thankful for so many cherished memories of laughter and love.
Richard is proceeded in death by his father William Virgil Payne, Sr. and his mother Frances Payne. He is survived by his siblings William (Billy) Virgil Payne, Jr. (Lisa), Rosemarie Payne, and Barbara Miles (Mike). He is also survived by his aunt and uncle, Margaret and Robert Arthur, cousins Tom Hartman, Debra Arthur, Robert Arthur, Jr., (Kristy) and nephews and nieces Melissa Vogel (Richard), Austin Payne (Erin), Tyler Miles and Jennifer Miles. Great nieces and nephews Ricky Vogel. Leo Vogel, Sonny Vogel, Juniper Payne, and Olive Payne.
Though Richard is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in every act of kindness you do in his name.
May Richard’s soul and the souls of all the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.