Samuel C. Payne

Samuel C. Payne, a devoted Air Force veteran and cherished family man, passed away on March 6, 2026, at the age of 95. He was born on February 16, 1931, to Clifford Everett and Dorothy Payne in Colfax, Indiana, and lived a life filled with dedication, purpose, and a deep love for his family.

Samuel proudly served in the United States Air Force, working in avionics for many years. His service took him and his beloved wife, Mina, on a journey around the world, including time in the Philippines, Hong Kong, and several locations across the United States. Their love story began at the 1950 Indy 500 and grew into a marriage filled with faith, devotion, and companionship. Together they shared 66 wonderful years.

Samuel was known for his lively spirit and strong work ethic. Sitting still simply wasn’t in his nature. Even in retirement, he stayed busy and active by continuing to work. He was naturally athletic and seemed to excel at every sport he tried, often impressing those around him no matter his age or experience. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and could often be found keeping up with his “stories,” as he liked to call them.

Above all else, Samuel loved his family. He was a proud father and grandfather who treasured the time he spent with those he loved most. He is survived by his children, Michael (Debra) Payne, Jodie (Eddie) Hatfield, and Dan (Tammy) Payne. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Sarah (John) Hardin, Brian (Berenice) Hatfield, Stephanie (Melissa) Bradley, Jessica (Branch) Shiflett, Heath (Jaclyn) Payne, and Heather (Pierre) Andrieux; and his great-grandchildren, Emily, Alex, Adrian, Sam, Sophia, London, Berkley, Hudson, Piper, and Charlie, who will forever cherish the memories they shared with him.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mina Bernice Payne; his parents, Clifford Everett and Dorothy Payne; and his siblings, Phyllis Richardson and Roma Schrier.

Samuel will be remembered for his hard work, his lively spirit, and the deep love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and in the family he held so dear.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in the form of donations may be made to VFW National Home.