Paul A. Payne

Paul Adrian Payne, 68, of Knottsville, KY passed away on March 4, 2024, peacefully at home with his beloved wife, Karen, and his children by his side.  Early that morning, the clouds lifted, and Paul was welcomed to his eternal life in Heaven. 

Paul, the youngest of three sons, was born on July 29, 1955, to the late Roy “Irvin” Payne and Margaret (Wilson) Payne.  Growing up on his family’s farm in Knottsville, KY, he developed a love for the outdoors and a strong work ethic.  Paul played basketball at Trinity High School in Whiteville, KY, graduating in 1973.  He continued his education, earning his bachelor's degree from Brescia University and master’s degree from Western Kentucky University.  His passion for Biology led him to a fulfilling career as a beloved teacher at Owensboro Catholic High School, as department head, where he dedicated 38 years before retiring. 

Paul’s commitment to his family is evident in the lifelong partnership he has shared with his high school sweetheart, Karen.  Together they built a loving home where they raised their children to be positive and selfless individuals.  Paul’s active involvement in his children’s lives and his role as a beloved “Pappy” to his grandchildren and great grandchildren highlights his dedication to his family and the joy he found in nurturing in those relationships.  

In a word, Paul was curious, and his inquisitiveness and keen intellect drove all his pursuits.  He was a true “Jack of all Trades” and loved tinkering, repairing, and creating with his own hands as well as teaching and watching minds grow under his tutelage.  He absolutely loved being outdoors, working on the farm, fishing, hunting, and camping.  In Paul’s spare time he enjoyed “Junking” with his wife and in-laws, traveling across the United States and spending time with his loved ones. Paul was a member of St. Pius X for 46 years, loving God above all things.  He also enjoyed volunteering for his community as a firefighter and EMT for the Knottsville Volunteer Fire Department, he retired as a Captain after 24 years of service.  

He was predeceased by his father Roy “Irvin” Payne; his mother, Margaret (Wilson) Payne; his brother, Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Payne; and his brother, Larry Taylor. 

Paul is survived by his wife of 48 years, Rosita “Karen” (Turner) Payne; his daughter, Sarah (Jody) Rumage of West Louisville; his sons, Paul “Adam” (Jody) Payne of Knottsville, Chief Petty Officer Clint (Courtney) Payne of Honolulu, HI, Ryan (Jenn) Payne of Knottsville; his brother, Russell (Judy) Payne; sisters in-law, Diane Payne and Carolyn Taylor; 15 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; as well as many in-laws, nephews, and nieces.  

The memorial Mass for Mr. Payne will be held at 12 p.m. Thursday March 14, 2024, at St. Pius X Catholic Church with Father Babu Kulathumkal officiating. Burial to follow in St. William Cemetery in Knottsville. Visitation will be held on Wednesday March 13, 2024, from 3 until 7 p.m. with prayers at 6 p.m. at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory, and also on Thursday March 14, 2024, from 11 a.m. until the time of the Mass at the church.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to the Owensboro Catholic High School Science Department, 1524 W. Parrish Avenue, Owensboro, KY 42301.

Memories and condolences for the family of Paul Payne may be left at www.glenncares.com