Richard Allen Payne

Memorial Service: 10 a.m., Saturday at Laurel Land Chapel of Chimes

Richard, better known as Rocky, was born June 25, 1949 in Lawrenceburg, KY. Though he would go on to gain a high school education, he would inevitably become enlisted in military service. His efforts in the army and the Vietnam War at large allowed him to return as a decorated veteran, with several medals and Purple Hearts to his name. Afterwards, he went on to work at Blackmon Mooring, and through a strong work ethic and perseverance, became a superintendent at BMS Catastrophe.

Over the years, Rocky traveled across the world to perform his duties. He had the friends and co-workers as proof, as well as a family that always awaited his journeys home: Donnalita, his wife of thirty-one years, and his sons Richard and Rhamy. Family or otherwise, those that spent even a moment with him knew him as a stalwart and reliable man. Few could ever match his efforts on the job, but he could prove in an instant how personable he could be. As an avid golfer and a sports enthusiast, he could make lifelong friends no matter what he did or where he went.

Rocky was, and always will be, an esteemed soldier, a diligent worker, a trusted provider, and an incredible man. Though he may have left this world and scores of people who will miss him, the bonds he forged and the examples he made will live on in his stead.

Richard Allen Payne Jr. is survived by his two sons, Richard and Rhamy of Fort Worth, TX; wife, Donnalita of Fort Worth, TX; brother, David Lee Payne of Lawrenceburg, KY; his aunt, Lacey Cunningham and uncle Wallace Bean of Lawrenceburg, KY; uncle Lucien Bean of New Jersey; two surviving sisters Anita Thomas and Barbara Jean Payne of Kentucky; nephews David Lee Payne Jr. and Lewis Payne; nieces Desndra Payne and Gloria Payne.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Payne Sr. and Beulah Gill of KY.

He will be honored by a host of cousins, friends, and workers. He and his family offer a special thanks to Danny Williams.

Richard “Rocky” Payne will be dearly missed, but the memories he helped create and the lessons he imparted shall live on through us all.