Edward-Payne-Obituary

Rev. Edward Payne

Cleveland, Ohio

05/16/1948 - 01/30/2026

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DIED
January 30, 2026
LOCATION
Cleveland, Ohio

Obituary

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The Reverend Edward Thomas Payne, 77, passed away on January 30, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio. A gifted operatic baritone, devoted educator, and faithful servant of the Episcopal Church, he leaves behind a lasting legacy of music, teaching, and ministry.Born May 16, 1948, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Betty...

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Having served as Gail's matron of honor in her wedding to Ed, I have watched this wonderful couple navigate life. Ed offered an invocational prayer at my 60th birthday celebration here in Atlanta, and he gave me advice regarding stewardship in the church--a subject about which he was quite passionate. I am confident that Ed now rests from his labors, is free of any pain, and is rejoicing in the presence of our Lord. My deepest condolences to Gail and all of Ed's family.

You have my deepest condolences, I attended Glenville High School with him. He was such a great person.

TO THE PAYNE FAMILY: May you Be Blessed With the Blessings of the Peace of God Which Surpasses All Understanding To Keep Your Hearts and Minds Through and By God and the Lord Jesus Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7. Sincerely. Glenville High Tarblooder Classmate of 1969 with Roger Scotty Payne in Glenville Plays with with Mr. Terry D. Edwards.

Our condolences and prayers to the Payne Family. We share many wonderful memories.

To the entire Payne family: my sincere condolences at the transitioning of your beloved Eddie. Eddie & I have been friends since the age of five years, then to be school mates at Glenville High & to sing in the infamous Glenville school choir sealed our friendship forever. God in His infinite wisdom knew his saint was tired and called him home. Family hold each other tight and know you will see him again. You all are in my prayers! Rest in Heaven dear friend.

I was saddened to hear of Ed's transition as were many of his and Gail's friends; however, "precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints" Psalm 116:15. I was excited for Gail when she met the love of her life those many decades ago. Ed was kind and intelligent gentleman, with an amazing sense of humor. We affectionately called each other "woobie boobie". Each time that I spoke with Gail over the phone, I also spoke to "woobie boobie" before we hung up". I will miss my...

I just saw the obituary in the paper & the face looked familiar. After 60 yrs. ...it was the smile that did it! Eddie & I were part of a group of 38 local high school students who received Fine Arts scholarships from the Martha Holden Jennings Foundation in 1965. We received private & class lessons for 6 weeks, all expenses paid at the Chautauqua Institution in New York. Eddie had voice classes (of course!) and I had ballet. It was the most wonderful experience & helped to give us the...

My heart goes out to the family in your loss. With deepest Sympathy.

Prayers and grace for Eddie's family as they grieve the loss of his mighty presence. He has been a true friend since Glenville High School and an avid supporter of all our events ever since. He will truly be missed by many, and I'm sure his heavenly purpose awaits him Forever friends From the Class of '66 Cheryl A Copeland