William Don Payne

William Don Payne, 92 of Henryetta, Oklahoma passed away on Thursday, November 4, 2021, in Bethany, Oklahoma. Don was born in Okemah, Oklahoma on December 17, 1928, to Cecil and Alta Payne. Don died peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones.

His preferred name was Don, although in the Navy he was known as “Willy”.
Don joined the United States Navy in July 1948 and retired in June 1984. Don
loved his country and his career in the United States Navy. He was a Master Chief Torpedo-man and had many accomplishments and awards during his career. He was one of the first scuba divers for the United States Navy. He received a meritorious advancement to Chief during The Vietnam War. Don had the privilege of serving under President Ronald Reagan at the White House.
Don met Rachel Stewart and they were married October 19, 1953, she preceded
him in death in 1994. Don remarried in 1999 to Frances Stewart. She preceded him in death in 2013.
Don is also preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Alta Payne and brother Louis.

Don is survived by his son James Stewart Payne and Daughter in law Cheryl
Payne. Eight Grandchildren Ranee, James Jr., Christopher, Kerry, Brandon,
Ronnie, Wesley, and Savannah survive Don and he was affectionately known as
Papa Don. Thirteen Great Grandchildren, Delilah, Dexter, Mia, Aaron, Liam,
Angel, Alex, Audrey, Peyton, Mackena, Lincoln, Brycen and Brayden also survive
Papa Don. Brother Darrell and wife Mitzie, Nephew Darrell Eugene, Niece Lisa,
Great-nephews Nicholas, Zachary, and Great-Great Nephew Zachary.
Don is also survived by his stepchildren Teresa, Stacy, Lisa, Sturlin.
We were so blessed to have had ninety-two years with Don, “Willy”, Papa Don.
You will forever be in our hearts.

Viewing for Don will be on Thursday, November 11, 2021, from 2:00 PM till 8:00 PM at Integrity Funeral Service, 410 East Trudgeon in Henryetta, Oklahoma.

Funeral services are scheduled for Friday, November 12, 2021, at 10:00 AM at Integrity Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow with Military honors at Westlawn Cemetery immediately following the service.

Services and arrangements are under the direction of Integrity Funeral Service.


 

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