LTC Thomas R. Payne

LTC Thomas R. Payne, age 72, of San Antonio, Texas passed away May 1, 2020, at the Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital in San Antonio. He was born on August 5, 1947, in Bronxville, New York to parents, John and Mary Mabel (Shannon) Payne. On March 12, 1972 he married Doris "Beth" E. Holton in Ft. Gulick, Panama Canal Zone. Retired LTC Payne proudly served his country as an Infantry Officer in the U.S. Army and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Legion of Merit and the recipient of the Bronze Star among the many distinguished decorations and medals he received during his 27 years of dedicated service to his country. In addition to his dedication to the U.S. Army, Thomas was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His three grandsons were his pride and joy, and he their greatest fan. Thomas enjoyed attending each activity they were involved with, whether it was choir performances, school plays, and their many sports activities. When he was not watching his grandson's playing sports, he enjoyed sitting on his porch and enjoying the view of his backyard. Thomas was also an avid fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary Payne; and siblings, Mary Jo Haddon, Mary Pat Brodie, Che Payne and Marty Chaudon. He is survived by his loving wife, Beth; children, Nicole Negrete and her husband, Eloy, and son, Ross Payne all of San Antonio; grandchildren, Julian Alvarez, Enrique and Mateo Negrete; brothers, Jim Payne and Joseph Payne both of Florida; and numerous nieces, nephews and other loving relatives. Funeral services will be private.