Robert Roscoe Payne

Robert Roscoe "Rob" Payne, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on March 25, 2026, in Baltimore, Maryland. Born on April 18, 1956, Ranson, West Virginia, Rob lived a life marked by dedication to his family, community, and passions.

Rob graduated from Jefferson High School in 1974 and pursued higher education at Shepherd College, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 1978. His career began as a dialysis technician before he joined Ft. Detrick in Frederick, Maryland, in 1981. There, he worked as an animal technician and later as a building manager for facilities conducting Cancer and Aids research. In 2004, Rob returned to Jefferson County to share his love of science with the next generation as a teacher at Charles Town Middle School. He taught science and co-taught math before transitioning to substitute teaching and retiring in 2022.

Rob's interests extended far beyond his professional life. A lifelong enthusiast of American History, he began collecting political memorabilia at a young age. His creative talents found expression through decades of involvement with the Old Opera House in Charles Town. Whether designing and building sets or performing on stage-his favorite place to be-Rob brought joy and artistry to the local theater community. He was also active member of the Kiwanis Club of Charles Town, dedicating countless volunteer hours to initiatives like Santa's Toy Shop during the Christmas season.

Family was central to Rob's life. He is survived by his devoted wife, Debra; his children, Kathlyn (Payne) Aguigui and her husband Ray with their children Gabriel and Kaylani; and Logan Payne. Rob is survived by his sisters, Cindy (Payne) Delbrooke and her husband Gary with their children, Allyson (Love) Kinsey and her husband Doug with their children, Emma, Caroline, and Cooper Rannenberger; Jeff Love and his wife Victoria with their daughter, Kensington' Laurie (Payne) Thomas and her husband Kenny with their sons, Kent and Austin along with Austin's wife Taylor and their daughters, Wren and Winslie.

Rob was preceded in death by his parents Roscoe and Phoebe (Wilson) Payne.

Through his work, creativity, volunteerism, and love for those around him, Rob left an indelible mark on all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn his passing.

A Visitation will be held on March 31, 2026, from 06:00 PM to 08:00 PM at Melvin T. Strider Funeral Home, 310 S. Fairfax Blvd., Ranson.

A Funeral will be held on April 1, 2026 at 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Melvin T. Strider Funeral Home, 310 S. Fairfax Blvd. with Rev. David Beeson officiating.

Interment will be in Edge Hill Cemetery in Charles Town.

To plant trees in memory, visit the Sympathy Store

In lieu of flowers-consider donating to the Old Opera House, 204 North George St., Charles Town, WV 25414 or Kiwanis of Charles Town, 1034 S. George St., Charles Town, WV 25414.

Please sign his online guestbook at www.mtstrider.com