John William Payne

John William Payne, 78, of Galveston, passed away 7:47 pm Thursday March 21, 2024, at his home. He was born in Kokomo, IN, on December 3, 1945, the son of Bill and Vivian (Wheeler) Payne. On October 14, 1999, he married Cheryl “CJ” Whiteman, and she preceded him in death on October 12, 2018.

John was a 1964 graduate of Western High School. He earned his Certified Drivers License and worked at Chrysler until his retirement in 2004. He proudly served our country in the Army National Guard and was a member of the Galveston American Legion. John was an easy-going man with a great sense of humor. He was a member of the Boy Scouts of America, Moose Lodge in Peru, and Eagles Lodge. He took great pride in keeping a well-kept yard, garden, and caring for hummingbirds in his garden. He enjoyed traveling to state parks, breweries, and taking weekend adventures to Michigan and Brown County, IN. John’s family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were his top priority.

John is survived by his daughters, Brianna (Joshua) Packard, Diane (Rich) Scott; parents, Bill and Vivian Payne; sisters, Judith Tubach, Deborah Payne; grandchildren, Hayleigh Hosler, Kaiden Hosler, Colton Cain, Emma Edwards, Julie Edwards, Kristen and Justin Kochenderfer, Chad and Brianne Payne; several nephews, and great granddaughters. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, CJ Payne.

Friends are invited to visit with the family from 11 am to 1 pm Thursday March 28, 2024, at Stout & Son Funeral Home – Russiaville Chapel, 200 East Main Street, Russiaville, IN 46979. Funeral service will begin 1 pm on Thursday at the funeral home, with Kenny Cole officiating. Burial will follow in Russiaville Cemetery. Military honors will be provided by the United States Army and Galveston American Legion. Contributions may be made in John’s memory to Riley Hospital for Children or American Cancer Society. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.com.

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