Wm. Bill E. Payne

William "Bill" Edward Payne, of Steelville, MO, was born on Wednesday, March 2, 1938, in Steelville, MO, to John William Payne and Bertha Venora Payne, nee Payne. He passed away at his home in Steelville, MO, with his wife Sharon and daughter Mary, by his side, at the age of 87 years, 8 months and 8 days.
Bill proudly served in the United States Army, spending time in France and Germany. Those years instilled in him a lifelong sense of duty and discipline. Upon returning home, he met and married his first wife, Patricia, with whom he shared 35 wonderful years. Together, they built their life in St. Louis, where Bill worked for the Missouri Department of Transportation for 35 years before retiring. During that time, they raised three children and created a warm, loving home - first in Pacific, then in Potosi, where they spent 24 years together.

A man of faith and compassion, Bill was deeply involved in the Potosi Presbyterian Church, serving as both Deacon and Elder. Through Helping Hands of Potosi, he gave generously of his time and spirit, and he played a key role in helping bring a family from Laos to Potosi in the 1970s - a reflection of his enduring kindness and commitment to others.

Following Patricia's passing in 1995, Bill found love again with Pat Norris. Together they made their home on the family farm in Steelville - a home Bill helped build himself. For five joyful years, they shared adventures and travel throughout Europe, Africa, Alaska, and Texas.

In 2003, Bill married Sharon, and together they continued a life full of love and exploration, traveling across the United States to visit family and friends. Some of Bill's happiest times were spent in Montana at the Stimpson Ranch, where he helped with the hay and cattle and enjoyed the beauty of the open country.

Bill had many passions that reflected his love of the outdoors and simple joys of life. He loved hunting and fishing, collecting guns, and always took pride in having a nice truck. Whether he was in the woods, on the water, or behind the wheel of a well-kept pickup, Bill found peace and contentment in the things he loved most.

Above all, Bill was a devoted father and grandfather. His greatest joy came from family gatherings at the farm, especially during Christmas and summertime, surrounded by laughter, stories, and love.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Bertha V Payne, nee Payne; his first wife of 35 years, Patricia Ann Payne, nee May; second wife, Pat Payne, nee Norris; and step-son, Steve Dobkins.

Bill is survived by his wife, Sharon Payne of Steelville, MO; three children, Jerry (Susan) Payne of Charleston, IL, Mary (Brad) Locke of Ellisville, MO and James (Anita) Payne of Katy, TX; two step-sons, Jim (Becky) Dobkins of Colstrip, MT and Will (Jamie) Dobkins of Ava, MO; sister, Edna (William) Huggins of St. Clair, MO; grandchildren, Michael (Keri) Payne, April (Nicholas) Ramelli, Jacob Payne, Jocelyn (Jacob) Hill, Katie Locke, Sarah Locke, Sammy Dobkins, Angus Dobkins, Darla (Chris) Robertson, Brandon (Katie) Locke, Justin Locke, Tyler Dobkins and Chelsea Runyan; 8 great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Visitation was from 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Hutson Funeral Home in Steelville, MO. Funeral Service immediately followed at 12:00 PM with Rev. Hugh Stewart officiating. Burial was at Steelville Cemetery with full military honors. Memorials were suggested to BJC Hospice or the Steelville Ministerial Alliance - Food Pantry.
Arrangements under the direction of Hutson Funeral Home, Steelville, MO.