Dr. Waymon Harris Payne, 91, formerly of Roanoke Rapids, NC, passed away on May 30, 2023.

Waymon was born in Kingston, WV, on September 13, 1931.  He was the son of the late Okey and Josie Payne.  He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Susan; a sister, Melissa Gum and brothers, Ulysses Payne, Franklin Payne, and John Payne.

Waymon was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend.  He loved his wife, daughters, and especially his two grandsons.  In all relationships, he embodied gentleness, kindness, and humility. He gained the respect of all who knew him and the love of children with whom he had contact in the schools.  He tried to bring out the best in others and gave only the best of himself.

Waymon attended Rosemary Baptist Church and taught adult Sunday school classes.  He also honorably served his country in the United States Army.

Until his retirement in 1996, Waymon was an educator in the Roanoke Rapids City School System, Halifax County School System, and the Greensville County Schools in Emporia, VA. He served on many boards and held offices with several civic organizations in the city of Roanoke Rapids, Halifax County, and the state of North Carolina. Upon his retirement, Waymon enjoyed spending time with his family, and spending many hours in his workshop making furniture and wood carvings of his favorite birds.

Waymon is survived by his wife of 64 years, Anna Jean, their daughters, Nancy Rapp (David) of Charlottesville, VA; Sandra Fambrough (David) of Asheboro, NC; grandsons, Benjamin and Corban Rapp; sister, Mary Jo Morris (Glenn) of Rockbridge, OH; brother, Lowell Payne of Sissonville, WV; niece, Shelby Morris; and nephews, Buren and Pat Payne.

A graveside service with military honors will take place on June 2, 2023 at 1:00pm in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens in Beckley, WV, with the Reverend David G. Fambrough officiating. In lieu of a visitation, the family requests letters of remembrance offering special memories to share with Waymon's daughters and grandsons. Letters may be mailed to the family at 832 Village Road, Charlottesville, VA 22903.

Memorial donations may be made to the Baptist Men's Fund, Rosemary Baptist Church, 936 Jackson Street, Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870, or to a charity of one's choice.

The family wishes to thank Askew Funeral and Cremation Services in Roanoke Rapids for handling funeral arrangements.