Steven Martin Ned Payne

The world lost a beautiful soul far too soon with the passing of Steven Martin Ned Payne, 37, of Asheville, on Thursday, June 19, 2025, after a brief illness. A gentle, kind-hearted soul, Steven was a peacemaker whose presence brought calm, creativity, and compassion to those around him. He always had a smile, kind eyes, and gave the very best hugs-he truly was the light of our lives. Steven had a deep emotional intuition-he understood when you were struggling, even if you couldn't find the words. His support came quietly and sincerely, in the form of a knowing look, a warm hug, or simply being present. He had a goofy, playful side and was never afraid to express himself fully-through his music, his humor, or his unfiltered love for people and life. Born and raised in Asheville, Steven graduated from Erwin High School in 2008 and later studied at the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Academy in Prestonsburg, Kentucky. At the time of his passing, he worked in maintenance at the historic Haywood Park Hotel-a fitting place for someone with a deep appreciation for history. Steven was a multi-talented artist with a profound love for music. After high school, he began recording original songs and albums that can be found on YouTube, leaving behind a legacy of melodies. In 2019, he followed his heart to New Orleans, Louisiana, where he immersed himself in the city's rich musical soul and vibrant culture. He moved back to Asheville in 2022 to be near his family. Adventurous and free-spirited, Steven loved kayaking down the French Broad River as much as he loved quiet moments reflecting on life and people. He was known for his compassion, determination, and belief in the worth of every person. Whether family, friend, or stranger, Steven treated everyone with dignity and care. Steven was preceded in death by his grandfathers Ned Payne, Charles Fowler, and Robert Mull, Jr. He is lovingly remembered by his mother and stepfather, Debbie and Steve Cottle; his father and stepmother, Marty and Lisa Payne; his sisters, Sarah (Joe) Ejefor and Erin (Matt) Boyd; his grandmothers, Ann Mull and Kaye (Bob) Hedrick; his aunts, Donna Ducker and Buffy Fowler; his uncle, Charley (Monica) Fowler; and his cousins Britney (Tyler) Ross, Jameson and Brennon Ross, Anna (Dale Singleton) Fowler, William Singleton, and Elisabeth Fowler. Steven had a gift for making friends wherever he went-he was a friend to many and never met a stranger. His warm hugs, sincere heart, and ever-present smile brought comfort to those around him. His life was one of kindness, creativity, and connection, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know and love him. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Mills River United Methodist Church. The family will also plan another Celebration of Life near his birthday for friends and family to gather and reminisce about Steven's life. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Steven's honor to Francine Delany New School, Arts Program at 119 Brevard Road, Asheville, NC 28806. Asheville Mortuary Services is honored to care for the Payne family at this time. Condolences may be made to the family at ashevillemortsvc@bellsouth.net To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Steven Martin Ned Payne, please visit our floral store.