Stanley Lee Payton

Stanley Lee Payton, 96, of Martinsville, passed away peacefully at 7:50 PM on Sunday, February 22nd, 2026, at his residence with his loved ones by his side.

Born in Martinsville, Indiana, on Thursday, February 28th, 1929, Stanley was the son of David L. Payton and Bessie Lavina (Medsker) Payton. He was one of nine children and grew up with a deep appreciation for family, hard work, and the simple pleasures of life.

On May 15th, 1954, Stanley married the love of his life, Judy Gayle (Littell) Payton, and together they shared more than seven decades of marriage, love and devotion.

A kind and gentle man, Stanley was known for never speaking an unkind word about anyone. He adored his grandchildren beyond measure and found his greatest happiness in time spent with family. He loved the outdoors, specifically hunting, fishing, and tending his garden. Most often, he could be found sitting happily on his deck, taking in the world around him.

Stanley proudly served his country in the United States Navy. Following his service, he dedicated 30 years of employment to Worley Stone Company in Bloomington, retiring in March of 1993 after a long and respected career as a crane operator.

He was a faithful member of VFW Post #1257, American Legion Post #230, and the Disabled American Veterans.

Stanley is survived by his beloved wife, Judy Gayle Payton of Martinsville; his daughter, Judelia "Lynn" (James) Pemberton of Martinsville; four grandchildren, Amber (Tony) McKinney, Ryan (Karen) Thacker, Matt (Samantha) Pemberton, all of Martinsville, and Glisen (Charlie) Pemberton of Indianapolis; fifteen great-grandchildren, Anthony (Robyn) McKinney, Levi (Kenzie) McKinney, Brandon (Megan) Thompson, Chase Thompson, Aryanna Thompson, Damien Pemberton, Sierra Pemberton, Dalton Thacker, Braden Thacker, Piper Thacker, Whestin McKinney, Keightlynn Thacker, Jacobi Hatton, Quorra Thacker and Oliver Hatton; and three great-great-grandchildren, Cameron and Lucas White and Waylor McKinney. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, including one special niece, Tanya Prather.

Along with his parents, Stanley was preceded in death by six brothers, Daniel Frederick Payton, Forest Dempsey Payton, Bruce Morgan Payton, Richard Payton, Merrill Leon Payton and David Payton Jr. and two sisters, Mary Katherine Hancock and Phyllis Baker.

In keeping with Stanley's wishes, he will be cremated, and the family will celebrate his life with a private family gathering. His legacy of kindness, humility, and love will live on in all who were blessed to know him.

Final arrangements have been entrusted to Neal & Summers Funeral and Cremation Center in Martinsville. Online condolences and memories are encouraged to be shared with the family at www.nealandsummers.com