Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Messinger Mortuaries-Pinnacle Peak Mortuary

8555 E. Pinnacle Peak Road

Scottsdale, Arizona

Robert Payton Obituary

Payton, Robert L.
84, of Carmel, IN passed away on May 19, 2011. Born August 23, 1926, in South Bend, IN. Son of John and Mamie Burns Payton. Married Pauline S. Payton, with whom he spent 60 wonderful years. Philanthropist, first ever professor of philanthropic studies; founding director Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University; author; foundation executive; university president; US Ambassador; WWII veteran. Above all, a remarkable public teacher, inspiring action through "books, ideas, talk." Survived by a sister, one son, two grandsons, and an adoring family. Preceded in death by two sons, two brothers, and his wife Pauline. Messinger Pinnacle Peak Mortuary. Donations to the John C. Lincoln Health Foundation/Mendy's Place Children's Emergency Center

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on May 24, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Payton

Not sure what to say?





3 Entries

Salvatore Alaimo

May 28, 2011

Bob was not only one of my professors in the PhD program in Philanthropic Studies at IU, he was a tremendous influence on my scholarship, teaching, my career and my life. I would not be where I am today if it were not for Robert Payton. The world of philanthropy including practitioners, researchers, scholars and teachers if forever grateful and in debt to Bob for his contributions and guiding light. I am producing a documentary on philanthropy and have decided to dedicate the film in his memory and honor.

Lorraine Blackman

May 27, 2011

As a new faculty member in the IU School of Social Work, Bob invited me to travel to the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia to teach them how to transition from communism to democracy. Included in the discussions were non-governmental organizations as a crucial element of civil society. Later, discussions extended his concern to Poland. His philanthropic genius influenced social life, not only in the the United States, but internationally. His was a life well-lived in service to humankind.

Lorraine C. Blackman, PhD
Associate Professor, IU School of Social Work

McClain Bybee

May 25, 2011

Dear Payton Family:
I was saddened to learn of the passing of your father, grandfather, family member and friend - Robert L. Payton. Bob was my mentor during the 1980s and 1990s in the philanthropic profession we shared. His thoughts and writings changed my life. His life and works continue to leave an imprint on our organization. May the Lord's blessings bring peace and comfort to all of you.

McClain Bybee
Managing Director
LDS Philanthropies
Brigham Young University

Showing 1 - 3 of 3 results

Make a Donation
in Robert Payton's name

Memorial Events
for Robert Payton

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Messinger Mortuaries-Pinnacle Peak Mortuary

8555 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

How to support Robert's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Robert Payton's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more