Samuel "Ron" Ronald Payne

Samuel “Ron” Ronald Payne, 85, of Sabetha, Kansas, passed away on March 8, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.

Ron was born on February 4, 1940, in Capioma, Kansas, to Samuel and Elda (Gilbert) Payne. He grew up on the family farm and attended country school through the sixth grade. After that, he attended school in Sabetha and graduated from Sabetha High School in 1958. Following graduation, Ron spent several years working various jobs, primarily in mechanic work.

Ron proudly served in the United States Army National Guard from 1963 to 1969. During the Vietnam War, he was called into active duty, where he demonstrated courage and dedication to his country. After his military service, he worked as a salesman in Kansas City, specializing in infant clothing, baby items, women's clothing, and jewelry.

Later, Ron returned to his true passion: working with cars. He worked as a mechanic and service writer at Kansas City British Motors before returning to Sabetha. Upon his return to Sabetha, he opened a radiator and mechanic shop, which he operated for several years. Then, he worked at various other jobs, including Aberle Ford, Leman Motors, the Sabetha Power Plant, and Country Mart. In his spare time, Ron searched for and sold antique auto parts. He also enjoyed spending time in his shop behind his home, where he especially loved working on anything with a motor. Many will remember his unique mailbox stand, which he designed and fabricated to mount an automotive wheel. Several of these mailbox stands are still in use around Sabetha. Ron also cherished working on and spending time on the family farm where he was born and raised.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Kay Garcia.

Ron is survived by his two children, Jeff (Jocelyn) Payne and Heather (Gary) Elliott; his three grandchildren, Hailey (Aaron) Duran, Jacob Payne, and Jessica Payne; and his two great-grandchildren, Judah Young and Ronan Duran.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 13, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Popkess Mortuary. A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha with military honors conducted after the service. Inurnment will be made in the Albany Cemetery, north of Sabetha. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Albany Historical Society sent in care of the Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, Kansas 66534.