John Cardozo Payne

Dr. John Cardozo Payne, of Ellicott City, Maryland passed away peacefully on April 23, 2024, surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest. John was born in Washington, DC, one of three children to the late Dr. John Condit Payne and Frances Cardozo Payne. He attended Mount Hermon School in Northfield, Massachusetts, and graduated with a degree in philosophy from Dartmouth College in 1959. He received his medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine in 1963. At Howard, John met his wife, Grace Evelyn Cheddesingh, where she was enrolled in the School of Pharmacy.
After his medical residency at Georgetown University and serving in the United States Naval Reserve, John and Grace moved to Columbia, Maryland, where John began a distinguished career as Chief of Anesthesia at Howard County General Hospital (HCGH). Throughout his career of more than 35 years, John received numerous accolades and served as a mentor to many physicians and hospital staff. He was twice elected to serve as President of the HCGH professional medical staff, leaving an indelible mark on the institution he cherished.

John loved to debate, read, play tennis, and to maintain physical fitness. He approached life with the same tenacity and dedication he brought to his profession. At the age of 77, he completed a 4-mile road race in less than an hour, leaving younger competitors in awe of his determination and stamina. He was loved by many and will be missed by all.

His wife, Grace, and his grandson, Carter preceded him in death, but he is survived by his sons, John (Kathy); Christopher; Tony (Shelley); Patrick (Jenny); his sister, Neenah; and seven grandchildren: Courtney, Cary, Cole, Piper, Lena and Brooklyn.

A joint Celebration of Life in loving memory of John and Grace will be held on August 17, 2024 at 11 a.m. at the Meeting House, 5885 Robert Oliver Pl., Columbia, MD 21045 (food provided).

The family asks in lieu of flowers, please donate in their names (John and Grace Payne) to the Johns Hopkins Howard Hospital Foundation (https://secure.jhu.edu/form/give, where both John and Grace proudly served.