Freeman Clifford Payne

Freeman spent part of his early life in Durant, Oklahoma, where he attended school through the 11th grade. In July 1948, Freeman enlisted in the United States Air Force where he completed his education, and proudly served his country until 1952. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Following his military service, Freeman began a long and dedicated career with Southwestern Bell, which later became AT&T. He remained with the company until his retirement in October of 1992.

In 1954, Freeman made Lubbock, Texas his home. Here, he built a life rooted in family, faith, and hard work. Freeman was a faithful member of Bethany Baptist Church, which he attended from November 1979 up until his passing. He found strength and community in his church family.

Freeman married the love of his life, Joyce Allene Langley, on December 15th, 1956, at First Baptist Church in Tucumcari, New Mexico. Freeman was a devoted husband and loving father to their four children, Charles, Paula, Rebecca (Reba), and Lisa.

Freeman was preceded in death by his parents, Elbert F. D. Payne and Willie Coyal Payne; his wife, Joyce Allene Payne; his daughter, Paula Tucker; and grandson Stephen Morris.

Survivors include his children, Charles (Linda) Langley, Rebecca (Reba) Moore, and Lisa Mackey; his beloved grandchildren, Raine and Dylan Mackey, and Christina Anderson, Angela Govea and Regina Langley, as well as 11 great-grandchildren, and 8 great-great-grandchildren - all of which provided a constant source of joy and pride throughout his life.

Freeman will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his service to his country, his strong work ethic, and his steadfast faith. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the family he so deeply loved.

A visitation will be held at Resthaven Funeral Home & Cemetery, located at 5740 West 19th Street, Lubbock, TX 79407, on December 26, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

The funeral service is scheduled for December 27, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm, at Bethany Baptist Church, located at 4402 40th St, Lubbock, TX 79414.

Following the funeral service, a committal service will take place at Resthaven Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 5740 19th St, Lubbock, TX 79407, from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm.