Russell R. Payne Sr.

Russell Ralph Payne was born, June 26, 1945, in Charlotte, North Carolina. He was the seventh child and fourth son born to James Gus, and Nettie Vaughters Payne (deceased). Russell experienced the energy of 14 siblings and the beauty of two wonderful parents who poured their entire being into the lives of each of their 15 children both individually and collectively. His 80 years were filled with hopes, dreams, aspirations, inspirations, intellectual curiosity, and responsibilities. These character-building attributes shaped Russell’s daily life—mind, body, and spirit. He was filled with light which reflected his playful nature. He would joke and spar with you to gauge your wit or simply to challenge your thinking. He was a fun-loving guy with an infectious smile. Russell’s educational career was nurtured throughout his schooling. He attended: Dewey Mann Elementary, Frederick Douglass Junior High, and graduated from Chester High, Class of 1964. During his high school years, Russell was an outstanding athlete. He played football and was the team’s defensive back. Upon graduation, Russell enrolled in The Chubb Institute, Swarthmore, PA., a career-focused technical school, where he earned a 2-year degree. Russell was drafted, May 26, 1968, in the U.S. Military Armed Forces Infantry Division. Three brothers, Van, Charles and Russell served in the Army during the same period, and each earned the rank of Sargeant. Upon Charles’s return from active combat duty in Vietnam. Russell was sent into combat. An urgent request from Charles was granted for Russell release and Charles re-entered the conflict. Admirably, Russell earned the rank of E4 and the following commendation as an infantry soldier in Vietnam: the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. Commendably, Russell was honorably discharged after 4 years of sacrifice and service to our country. Russell’s work career began immediately after his military service. He worked for the Ferris School, a treatment facility that provided services for committed males, ages 13 to 18. His employment expanded to the United Engineers followed by a career with the Defense Personnel Administration, Philadelphia, PA, where he served for more than 30 years, as Chief Maintenance and Operation Director, before retiring. Russell’s legacy continues with his children: Son, Russell, Jr.; Daughters, Tania Williams (Terrance), Kimberly Payne (Jesse), Jacqueline Anees Green; Step-Daughter, Ebony Comfort; Grandchildren, Keon (Stephanie), Khalil, Camile, Chloe, La’Kei, Sanii, Saleem, Sasha, Lamar, Liam, Liyla and Layla; Great Grandchildren: Makayla, Alexa, Keon Jr, Jayden, Gabriella, Korey and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, and friends. He is survived by his siblings, Van Buren Nelson Payne (Mary), Charles Edward Payne (Vivian), Nettie Mae Alliston (Eugene), Sylvia Daisy Dopirak (Joseph), Joyce Ann Wells, Barbara Jean Thompson, Henrietta Diane Shelton (John, Jr.), Patricia Gustina Lewis, Nelson Bruce Payne and nephew, Dean Payne. He leaves to cherish his memory, the love of his life, Barbara. Russell was predeceased in death by his parents James and Nettie Payne, five siblings, Joseph, Katie, Christella, Mattie, Dorris and a grandson Korey.

Russell R. Payne Sr.

June 26, 1945 - February 5, 2026