William Thomas Payne

William Thomas “Tommy” Payne

Born October 11, 1940, in Knottsville, KY. Passed December 10, 2024, in Newburgh, IN.

 William Thomas Payne, lovingly known as "Tommy," passed away while receiving physical therapy at Deaconess Encompass and working to regain his strength and return to his cherished home and family.

Tommy was born in the tight-knit community of Knottsville, KY to Ignatius Drury and Willie Mae (Higdon) Payne. Raised in a simpler time, he was baptized and educated at St. William Church and School, where he developed a lifelong pride in his Kentucky roots. Tommy’s childhood and community fostered his love of family, faith, and country, bonds he carried throughout his years.  After high school, Tommy and his best friend and cousin, Charles “Frankie” Millay (fallen 4/19/1965), proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army until he left to marry his former wife, Rosemary. A devoted veteran, Tommy remained deeply patriotic and grounded in his Catholic faith, always honoring those who served our country and sharing his patriotism with all.

Tommy became a young father and worked tirelessly to support his family, including twins, Tina and Trina, and his son Michael. Over the years, he worked in construction, trucking, and heavy equipment operations. He worked for two decades as a project supervisor at Kelly and Wilmore, working with South Central Bell and supporting Kentucky farmers and residents. Later, Tommy welcomed another beautiful daughter and blessing, Amanda, with his former wife, Gladys. He cherished Amanda dearly and appreciated her devoted love and medical care from her and her mom as he grew older.

In his later years, Tommy was blessed to live with Amanda and his grandson, Kingston, whose accomplishments as a talented football player and stellar student at Mater Dei High School this year brought him constant joy. Kingston and Tommy hold a special bond. Tommy's love for his family also extended to all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom he celebrated with frequent bragging and personal pride.

Tommy had a passion for horse racing, barbecuing, political discussions, and cooking for loved ones. Known for his signature dishes—BBQ dip and mutton, a country breakfast, catfish and hush puppies, baked turkey with sage dressing, and potato soup—he found boundless joy in sharing meals and endless talks with family. He loved to barbecue for his family, friends, and community. Tommy also loved homegrown vegetables in the summer, especially tomatoes which he often grew. A natural conversationalist, he lit up any room with his jokes, opinions, and enthusiasm for current events and people. He cheered on the University of Louisville and the University of Kentucky football and basketball teams, uniting his family and friends over a shared love of sports.

Tommy is survived by his beloved children: Tina Payne Hunt (Paul), Trina Riney (Mike), Michael Payne (Stacey), and Amanda Payne; his grandchildren: Kingston; Liam Payne (Nikki) and Reece Payne; Nicole, Danielle, and Christina Hunt; Martina Riney-Foster (Ally), Laura Riney Ayer (Kyle), and Mikala Riney; and his great-grandchildren: Harper, Mollie, Bennett, Michael, and Noah. He was predeceased by his parents, Ignatius and Willie Mae, and siblings Michelle “Elsie” Elmore, James Carroll “Bunny” Payne, and Patricia “Pat/Patsy” Phillips Bouie.

Tommy’s love for his family and friends was immeasurable, and his kindness, encouragement, and laughter will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He always enjoyed family gatherings for holidays and celebrations, especially the home-cooked food. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered. His legacy will be carried on by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren as they seek to live and love unconditionally and are determined that no matter what personal or health challenges they face, they will stay strong and appreciate all of life’s blessings.

Dad always made time to ask how his children and grandchildren were doing. Most importantly, Dad would always say, “I will pray for you (them). Tell everyone hello and I love them.” May all continue to be kind, compassionate, and loving in his memory!

A Celebration of Life will be held in Owensboro, KY, on Wednesday, December 18. Visitation will take place at Glenn Funeral Home from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM CST, followed by a Funeral Mass at 1:00 PM at St. William Church and burial in Knottsville, KY, 9515 State Route 144, Philpot, KY 42366.

In place of flowers, donations may be made to the St. William Parish Building Fund https://www.swslparishes.org/ or Mater Dei High School Football, Evansville, IN https://www.materdeiwildcats.com/giving . Messages and condolences to the family can be shared at www.glenncares.com.