Bobby J. "Bob" Payne

Bobby 'Bob' Payne, 92, of Littlefield, Texas, passed away on Monday, October 27, 2025, in Littlefield, Texas. He was born on March 24, 1933, in Stamford, Texas to Martin Samuel and Mae Payne.

Bob graduated from Aspermont High School in Aspermont, Texas then completed a year of college, until he was old enough to join the Navy. He was active in the Navy 1951-1955 during the Korean Conflict. After he returned home, he continued his studies at McMurry University. During this time, he met LaNell McCaleb. They were married on June 22, 1958, in Anson, TX.

Bob began teaching in Boerne and then returned to McMurry University to complete his Masters. He went to Colorado City and taught for a few years then took a break from teaching and went on to work as an Engineer in the oilfield at Dowell Industry. Shortly after, he went back to teaching. First in Hobbs, New Mexico then he moved to Amherst, Texas, where he served as their principal for several years. Teaching was a passion of Bob's, so he went on to Three Way, Texas to start teaching again and was there for a year. God then led Bob to Littlefield, Texas in 1977 where he would continue his passion in his teaching career.

Bob was known for his famous sticks and jump rope routines to all who had the privilege of having him as a P.E. teacher. He loved making people laugh and got joy out of doing short 'magic shows.' The happiness he gave to the children of others was immeasurable. Bob had a unique way of making kids feel loved, respected, and like they mattered. He dedicated himself to teaching in Littlefield, Texas until he retired in 1998. Although, after retiring from teaching, Bob continued working with the Littlefield Independent School District by helping with their after-school program and driving buses when they needed him. His personality was full of humor, and his smile never fell short.

In 2014, LaNell passed away. They spent fifty-six loving years together. Bob and LaNell had two sons and one daughter. Their children gave them beautiful grandchildren who referred to Bob as 'Grandpa,' 'Grandaddy,' and 'Daddo.'

Bob was a member of the Crescent Park Church of Christ. His hobbies included fishing, camping, hunting, gardening and woodworking. On a calm day, Bob was known to enjoy the fairway and get in a good game of golf. He loved to be outdoors and felt it was important to stay active and moving. Bob was also a beekeeper and had many hives. He sold honey in stores under the name 'Bob's Bee Farm.'

Those left to cherish his memory are his two sons, Robert Payne and spouse Christy of Amherst, Texas, Michael Payne and spouse Renee' of Bushland, Texas; one daughter, Sheri Pace and spouse Bryan of Seagraves, Texas; three grandchildren, Sarah Payne of New Caney, Texas, Brandi Wright of Conroe, Texas, Rylee Payne of Bushland, Texas; two great-grandchildren, Hailey Wright and McKenzie Wright; one sister, Gayle Long and spouse Alex of Aspermont, Texas. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Mae Payne; his wife, LaNell Payne; and his two grandchildren, Ella Payne and Aranza Payne.

Funeral services for Bob Payne will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the Crescent Park Church of Christ in Littlefield, Texas with Brian Patterson and Evan Weiss officiating. Visitation service is scheduled for 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Hillcrest Funeral Home in Littlefield, Texas. Interment will be in Fairlawn Cemetery in Amherst, Texas.

Arrangements are under the personal care of Hillcrest Funeral Home in Littlefield, Texas.