Vance Lee Payne

Vance was a devoted husband, a loving father, a cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend whose life was defined by his unwavering faith, quiet strength, and deep love for his family.

His leaves behind his loving wife and best friend, DeAnna. Thier marriage was the cornerstone of each other's life and was a beautiful testament to love, faith, respect, and unwavering commitment. Vance faced his sudden and rapid illness with courage, grace, and an unshakable trust in God.

Vance also leaves behind his sweet daughter Addison ("Addy"), who was the light of his life and his greatest joy. He treasured every moment they shared and looked forward with excitement to watching her grow into the remarkable young woman he knew she would become. His love for Addy was unconditional, and a special love like no other.

Family meant everything to Vance. Leaving behind 2 brothers Alan and Kyle and sister Shanon, along with nieces, nephews, and extended family. He believed that one of life's greatest blessings is simply being present and never missed an opportunity to support and encourage those he loved. His kindness, loyalty, gentle spirit, and generous heart left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Vance found peace and joy in God's creation. He loved spending time outdoors, especially fishing, and looked forward each year to the cherished fishing trips he shared with his brothers and nephews. Those adventures became treasured traditions filled with laughter, stories, and memories that will live on for generations. He also enjoyed watching sports, spending time with family, and appreciating life's simple blessings.

A proud graduate of Sweetwater High School, Class of 1982, Vance earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Tarleton State University and later a Master's degree from Dallas Baptist University. He built a distinguished career that began with Vought Aerospace in 1988 as an Industrial Engineer. Throughout his professional life, he was respected for his intelligence, integrity, strong work ethic, and willingness to mentor and encourage others.

Vance's legacy is one of love, faith, integrity, and selfless devotion to his family. While his absence leaves an immeasurable void, his example will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and joyfully reunited one day with those who share his faith in Christ.

Vance’s Career:

Vance started working for Vought Aerospace in 1988 as an Industrial Engineer. Over his long career with the company, he proved his worth time and time again. Vance’s dedication, hard work, integrity, and ability to get along with others made him well liked by managers and coworkers alike.

Over the years Vance became integral in the development and execution for multiple aircraft structure programs on both commercial and military products. He was involved in the development and layout of fabrication and assembly areas to be as time efficient as possible. Once a program was in production Vance worked with the manufacturing units to further streamline and improve operations. While working full time, Vance obtained a Masters Degree and several certifications including a Six Sigma Black Belt and teacher in Lean Manufacturing.

Vance was a key contributor on the startup and successes of the Gulfstream GV, Sikorsky Blackhawk Helicopter cabin, Bombardier Global 7000 wing programs. He played a key role in the implementation of factory automation and robotic manufacturing.

Vance retired from Vought in 2019 and went on to continue his career at Lockheed Martin where he was able to apply his knowledge and years of experience to be just as well thought of and successful in his position there.

Vance was well known and respected for his willingness to do whatever it took to get the job done but also his selflessness to help others in their careers or life. He was a great man, leader, co-worker, confidant, and friend to many. He will be missed by all who worked with him.

Vance leaves behind his loving wife, DeAnna; his beloved daughter, Addison ("Addy"); his siblings; nephews; nieces; great-nephews; great-nieces; extended family; and countless friends whose lives were made better by knowing him.

Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, his legacy of love, faith, compassion, and devotion to family will continue to live on in all who knew him.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

Vance will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Awards/Certifications:

Congressional Angel Award-Received a pin and recognition from Congress for serving on a panel to help change adoption laws