Thomas M. Payne

PAYNE Thomas M. Payne was born on March 1, 1929 to James C. and Nettie Payne in Columbus, Oh. Thomas, known to his friends and family as "Melvin" attended Linden McKinley High School in Columbus, Oh. He was an employee of the Borden's Milk Company retiring after 44 years of loyal service. He was a member of the Borden's Quarter Century Club and was the first African American to be promoted to the position of Driver-Salesman for the company, then located at 1086 N. 4th Street in Columbus, Oh. Melvin was a sports lover and participated in amateur football, basketball and softball leagues in Columbus throughout his early years. During his later years he became an avid bowler, participating in several leagues including the Postal Alliance League. He was a longtime booster of Columbus West High School's athletic department where his children participated in track and field and cheerleading. Melvin is survived by his wife of 63 years, Luella (Banks); son, Thomas Jr., Neptune, N.J.; daughter, Patricia (Carter) Lightbourn, Miami, Fla.; sister, Audrey (Ted) Alexander, Columbus, Oh.; brother, Charles (Dolores) Payne, Columbus, Oh.; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews. Melvin spent his final days in Miami, Fla. with his wife, Luella, daughter and son-in-law and departed this life on October 23, 2009 at Baptist Hospital in Miami, Fla. Visitation 2-4 p.m. Saturday, October 31 with Service immediately following at CABALLERO RIVERO WOODLAWN FUNERAL HOME, 11655 SW 117th Ave., Miami, Fla. 33186, (305)238-3672.