Donald L. Payne, 72, of Vergennes, passed away at 9:30 A.M., Sunday, May 9, 2021 at the SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale.
Don had been a lineman for GTE-Verizon for thirty-six years. He was a member of St. John's United Church of Christ in Du Quoin. Don was a member of the Murphysboro Elks Lodge, Du Quoin Sons of the American Legion, IBEW, and Chair Captain at the Vets Inn. He had served as Du Quoin City Police and Fire Commissioner for sixteen years. Don loved to play in different bands, which he did for twenty-six years. His favorite band was Country Fire. Don loved to hunt deer and duck and he enjoyed fishing. He also loved to travel. Don loved spending time with his grandchildren and nephew Chuckie, teaching them to hunt and fish.
He was born April 10, 1949 at Du Quoin, IL, the son of Robert and Carrie (Rudloff) Payne.
He married Judy A. Ozburn on December 17, 1971 at Du Quoin, IL and she preceded him in death on July 12, 1984. He then married Antoinette J. (Schneider) Geilhausen on January 1, 2000 at Vergennes and she survives.
He is survived by his wife of Vergennes, one daughter - Heather Waller and husband Trent of Du Quoin, two step children - Anjie Stendeback and husband Jason of Alton and Ryan Geilhausen and wife Amber of Highland, two grandchildren - Avery Waller and Camden Waller, both of Du Quoin, six step grandchildren - Jack, Genevieve, Cecilia, Ariah, Rayanna, and Johnnie Dee, special nephew - Chuckie Payne and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, first wife, one daughter - Meredith Payne, and one brother - Bob Payne.
A big thank you to the nursing staff at SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale.
Per Don's request, cremation rites were accorded.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 P.M., Sunday, May 30, 2021 at the Veteran's Inn in Dowell, IL.
Friends may make memorials to Hospice of Southern Illinois and will be accepted at the funeral home.
Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin is in charge of arrangements.