William A. "Bill" Payne

William A. "Bill" Payne, known to family and close friends as "Budgie," passed away on September 25, 2023, surrounded by his family. William was born in Whitesville on May 23, 1937, to the late Conen and Thomas Evaline Lanham Payne.

Budgie married the love of his life, Mary "Carla" Vance Payne, in 1960. Their 63 years of loving marriage showed his unwavering devotion to her. Budgie and Carla embarked on memorable journeys to Europe and China, creating lasting memories. His commitment deepened as he tenderly cared for Carla for many years following her Alzheimer's diagnosis, standing by her side until her passing a month ago.

Budgie was also a loving and caring father who instilled faith, character, and values in his children who he often bragged on.  Their achievements were his.  

A steadfast Catholic, Budgie regularly worshiped at St. Joseph and Paul Church. After years of dedicated service, he retired from the Glenmore Distillery. Budgie also proudly served in the US Army, stationed at Fort Chaffee, AR, during the Berlin Crisis.

With a passion that spanned over half a century, Budgie was a Master Clockmaker who repaired countless clocks for the residents of Daviess and neighboring counties. His meticulous craftsmanship was evident in every piece he worked on; not only did he fashion his own gears and components for his clock movements, but he even crafted his own screws. His dedication to the craft saw him rise to the role of president for the local chapter of the National Watch and Clock Collectors multiple times.  He generously shared his knowledge by leading seminars on clock repair. He and Carla enjoyed traveling nationwide, attending several clock shows each year.  Beyond clocks, Budgie was an accomplished watchmaker, jeweler, and a self-taught machinist. His countless hours in his workshop are a testament to his unyielding dedication and talent.

In addition to his parents and beloved wife, he was preceded in death by his sister, Lucille King; brother, Edwin Payne; and grandson, Benjamin Payne.

Those who remain to honor and remember him include his sons, Kevin Dale Payne (Rita) and Brian Neal Payne (Andrea); daughter, Stacie Kaye Meyer (Tim); grandchildren, Jon Meyer, Chris Meyer (Katie), Eric Meyer (Natalie), Kari Burden, Emily Stiles (Matt) and Kathryn Payne; great-grandchildren, Cohen Burden, Benjamin Meyer, William Meyer, Anna Meyer, and Henry Meyer; sister, Lorene Mattingly; and brother Benjamin Payne (Janice)

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Wellington Parc staff for their compassionate care extended to both Carla and Budgie. They also wish to thank the Heartford House team for their dedicated care during Budgie's final days.

Budgie's funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, October 2, 2023, at Saints Joseph and Paul Catholic Church.

Visitation will be from 2 until 5 p.m. Sunday, October 1, 2023, at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory, with prayers at 5 p.m.

Visitation Monday will begin at 9 a.m. at the Church. Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to the Alzheimer's Association of Greater KY and Southern IN 6100 Dutchmans Ln, Ste 401 Louisville, KY 40205

Messages and condolences for the family may be shared at www.glenncares.com.