Richard Reeb Payne "Ricky" was born April 2, 1984, in Columbus, Ohio, and nine months later moved to Ventura County with his parents, Rick and Kathy. He attended St. Anthony Elementary School and went on to Santa Clara High School where he starred in football and basketball. Ricky went to Weber State University in Ogden, Utah, and then returned to earn two Associate Degrees at Ventura College in Criminal Justice and Business; he played football throughout his college career. In 2002 Ricky received the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame Scholar-Athlete Award.
From the age of 14 Ricky worked at the City of Ventura as a camp councilor, referee, gym supervisor, and sports official, and then as a security guard for the Ventura Theater. In 2005 Ricky was hired by the Ventura Police department as a cadet. In 2006 he was employee of the month as a cadet, and in 2007 was hired as a full-time police officer. He is the current police department employee of the month and was enjoying his lifelong dream working as a police officer at the Ventura Police Department. Ricky participated on the Ventura County Hogs football team and played in the Pride Bowl each year and helped raise funds for the Police Atheletics League. Ricky was a proud member of the world famous Bald Brothers BBQ Company. Ricky touched many lives in his years of public service. He changed many people's lives and was loved by everyone that he came into contact with.
Ricky is survived by his parents, Rick and Kathy Payne; his sister, Jennifer Payne-Colton and her husband Matt; his grandparents, Richard and Edie Payne, Norma and Bill Rose, and Ron and Jan Reeb. Ricky also has numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins that will miss his wonderful personality, bright shining face and crooked smile.
Please send all flowers to the Reardon Funeral Home, 511 North A Street Oxnard, CA 93030.
Services for Ricky will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 21, in the pavilion at Santa Clara High School, 2121 Saviers Road, Oxnard, CA 93033. To pay tribute to Ricky's life please visit www.reardonfh.com.
Ricky has been entrusted to the care of the family owned and operated Reardon Funeral Home, 511 North A Street Oxnard, CA 93030, 487-1720.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
KATHY CROWDER
November 7, 2011
I JUST WANT OFFICER PAYNE'S FAMILY TO KNOW WHAT A GENTLEMAN AND SUBERB POLICE OFFICER HE WAS. HE CAME OUT ON A CALL INVOLVING MY TEENAGE DAUGHTER AND I CAN NOT EVEN BEGIN TO TELL YOU HOW PROFESSIONAL, HELPFUL, WISE, AND COMPASSIONATE HE WAS. HE EVEN OFFERED TO TALK TO MY DAUGHTER IN EFFORT TO TURN HER BEHAVIOR AROUND. SHE AND I ARE BOTH GRATEFUL TO HIM FOR HELPING OUR FAMILY IN A VERY DIFFICULT TIME. YOUR FAMILY IS IN OUR PRAYERS. WHAT A SPECIAL YOUNG MAN.
Christine Portillo
October 31, 2011
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998
Jeff and Celeste Corbin
October 26, 2011
Payne family,
Your in our thoughts and prayers.
Ricky & Jennifer in Indian Guides with John & Rachel Williams-great memories!
Williams Beth
October 25, 2011
Amber Super
October 23, 2011
Jennifer, Kathy and Rick. My heart goes out to you and your family. I am proud to have known such a good man and family. My whole family sends all of their prayers for you and yours.
Dorothy Trotter
October 23, 2011
Such a terrible tragedy! My heart goes out you all. May God bless you in your healing time.
John & Beth WIlliams
October 23, 2011
Rick, Kathy, Jennifer and family. John & I have thought of you and your family often over the years with great memories. Ricky was such a joy, always smiling. Our prayers are with your family. Such a tragedy to lose a ray of sunshine like Ricky.
October 22, 2011
Find comfort in each other and know your family is close in our thoughts and prayers. Chris & Barbara Post
Catherine Stinson
October 22, 2011
Rick&Kathy & Family
Ricky is remembered by his smile and laughter. While at St.Anthony's parish in the High School confirmation program I do remember him. I offered Mass on Friday for the Payne families here at my parish in Texas.
P=Pause
E=Enter
A=Accept
C=Calm
E=Embrace
Love, Catherine Ann Stinson & Family
October 21, 2011
Sending our condolences to you, Kathy and Rick, and to all of those who knew and loved Ricky. Our hearts are heavy for you.
Laurie & Frank Palmiero
Julie V Gonzales
October 21, 2011
Kathy and Family,
Please know that I have you in my thoughts and prayers, during this difficult time. Ricky was a bright star with a caring heart just like his mom. May our lord bring comfort to you and your family.
Christina Cox
October 21, 2011
Rick, Kathy and Jen,
I am so devasted by the loss of your son and my dear friend Ricky. He was a great man and who will be greatly missed.
The Tougas Family--Gary, Debby, Jen, & Jade
October 21, 2011
Our deepest condolences to Rick, Kathy, and Jennifer. It was a pleasure to know Ricky through St. Anthony's and SCHS. He was truly the type of person who made the world a better place simply because he was in it. He made such an impact in the lives of so many people through his genuine kindness. May he now rest in the arms of angels. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jim & Ana Tougas
October 21, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Payne Family. We remember Ricky as a kind and caring young man...always giving of himself.
Alyssa Salinas
October 21, 2011
" I'm an angel now
My spirit is free
I am an angel in heaven
So please don't cry for me
I was chosen by our Lord above and now I am in his care
When you need me look inside your heart
I promise I'll be there
I am an angel in heaven now
So if you cannot find your way
or the road home just seems too far
Look to the sky, I'll be your guiding star'
'I'm an angel now
My spirit is free
I'm an angel in heaven now
No need to cry for me."
Melissa Yeto
October 21, 2011
Rick, Kathy, and Jennifer,
We are so sorry for your loss. Ricky touched many lives as was witnessed today at his services. Our thoughts are with your family. The Yeto Family
October 21, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Payne Family.We will always have fond memories of Ricky from the years at St.Anthonys' and Santa Clara.The Prebble Family.John,Felecia and Courtney.
David M
October 21, 2011
My condolences to the Payne Family on the passing of your beloved son Ricky. I never met Ricky but I too was a Pirate at VC and followed his career in sports. My thoughts and prayers are with you all duriing this most painful time. May God Bless Ricky for all the good things he did while on this beautiful earth we all share. Just remember that love for someone is like the wind you can't see it but you sure can feel it.
Tina Quigley
October 21, 2011
To the Payne Family,
You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Trish DiChiacchio
October 21, 2011
Dear Rick, Kathy and Jennifer,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Find strength in each other and may your beautiful memories will carry you to a place of peace.
Trish DiChiacchio (Mrs. D.)
vanessa candelaria
October 21, 2011
Ricky may your soul rest in peace. you were a very important person in a big part of my life. you wil be forever missed and loved. my heart goes out to the paynes during this hard time. so you again when we meet up in the heavenly skies.
amy detwiler
October 21, 2011
May u rest in peace. u r with god and now become one of his angels.
Ashley Rodriguez
October 20, 2011
To the Payne Family, I send my deepest sympathies and Prayers in this time of need. Ricky impacted my life greatly. I'm so thankful for all the memories and that smile that lifted my spirits throughout our days at St. Anthony's. I am truly thankful to have known Ricky.
Rest with the angels my friend, until we meet again!
John, Yolanda & Steven Bullock
October 20, 2011
Payne family-Our many thoughts and prayers during this time. Always remember the spark in Ricky's eyes, such a bright son you were blessed with. Smile as we reflect St. Anthony school days, memories to cherish a lifetime. Your son is "home" with his Father resting in peace.
Ann Favor
October 20, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of great loss. May you find strength, peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Rich and Ann Favor
Pat Keating (Bennett)
October 20, 2011
My condolences, thoughts, and prayers are with all of the Payne family.
October 20, 2011
TO THE PAYNE FAMILY MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH ALL OF YOU. CARL SCHEIPERPETER VENTURA
Lorraine Carmona
October 20, 2011
To the Payne Family,so very sorry for the loss of your son.My daughter went to school with him @SCHS. Our thoughts & prayers are with your family. And to the SCHS Class of 2002...remember the good times & cherish them in your heart forever..... Lorraine & Art Carmona
Don and Teri Andre
October 20, 2011
May Ricky Payne rest in peace now. We're so sorry to hear of his passing and are grateful to the young officer for his service to the community by working for VPD. Our deep condolences to the Payne family and many friends.
Patrick Stevens
October 20, 2011
My heart goes out the Payne family. I worked with both Rick and Ricky at VPD. I first met Ricky at my retirement. He was cooking with the Bald Brothers BBQ Company. He had a wonderful smile. Ricky was a quality officer like his dad. I will always remember his smile.
Vicki Linares
October 20, 2011
My wish for Kathy, Rick, Jennifer and all of Ricky's family and friends:
"Comfort on difficult days,
Smiles when sadness intrudes,
Rainbows to follow the clouds,
Laughter to kiss your lips,
Sunsets to warm your heart,
Hugs when spirits sag,
Beauty for your eyes to see,
Friendships to brighten your being,
Faith so that you can believe,
Confidence for when you doubt,
Courage to know yourself,
Patience to accept the truth,
Love to complete your life."
- Anonymous
We cannot stopped thinking about you all. Sending healing light and love.
Mary Ann Tucker
October 20, 2011
Kathy Payne & family,
In this time of sorrow my thoughts and prayers are with you in your loss.
Gary Anglin
October 20, 2011
My heart goes out to the Payne family. I will remember Ricky as a GREAT young man. He will always be remembered as a Ventura College Pirate.
Coach Gary Anglin
Ventura College
October 20, 2011
My heart goes out to the Payne family. I will remember Ricky as a GREAT young man. He will always be remembered as a Ventura College Pirate.
Coach Gary Anglin
Ventura College
Christine Epley
October 20, 2011
Ricky, was a very special boy. I always remember him with a smile on his face. I still remember many talks and just times laughing with him when he was boy. He grew into an amazing young man.
Amber Diaz
October 20, 2011
My deepest sympathies to the Payne family... I am a better person for having you in my life Ricky. you were an amazing man and I will carry the happy memories of you in my heart always.
Chris Losoya
October 20, 2011
Ricky, you will be deeply missed. Only one statement comes to mind when people think of you, "Worlds Greatest". I'm glad I had the honor of being friends and teammates. Saints 4 Life.
Morgan Ann Leatart
October 20, 2011
You touched so many lives and will be missed by many. RIP Ricky.
Gale Hartman
October 20, 2011
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Cindy Sullivan-Lau
October 20, 2011
Dear Kathy, Rick and Jennifer,
My heart aches for you all. I remember the good times of Brian and Ricky getting together in grade school playing micro machines and being on the St. Anthony basketball team together. A time of innocence, a time to keep in you heart. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time.
Joanne Kincaid
October 20, 2011
May the good Lord above wrap you in his arms tightly to lessen the pain. Ricky's smile will always stand out in my memories of him. He was always such a happy kid. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless all of you and may Ricky rest in peace now that he is out of pain.
October 20, 2011
TO THE PAYNE FAMILY AND FRIENDS:MAY THE LORD GIVE YOU ALL STRENGTH AND COMFORT DURING THIS DIFFUCULT TIME SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS IT TRULY IS A LOSS TO THOSE WHO KNEW HIM AND THE CITY OF VENTURA.MAY THE LORD BE WITH.
Kaye Ashmore
October 20, 2011
May God bless you all in this time of sorrow. You are in my thoughts & prayers.
Cassandra Mata
October 20, 2011
I miss you now more than ever. You were taken from us far Ro soon. But I will keep my head up and chin down because I appreciate all the time we did spend together. R.I.P. to one in a billion,my hunnie, Ricky Payne
Pam Harvey
October 20, 2011
I am so sorry for your loss. Ricky was a great person and officer. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him. May God Bless you all during this sad time, my thoughts and prayers are with you all...
Love, Pam Harvey....a former VIP member of VPD
Sara
October 19, 2011
To Kathy: My heart hurts knowing the pain you are in. I remember Ricky's shining eyes when he smiled and his face lighting up. I remember him running around our backyard so many years ago. He loved you very much and will always be in your heart. My prayers are following you throughout the day. Hope to see you soon. Sara
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