Freddie Elwood Payne

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Freddie Elwood Payne, affectionately known as Fred, aged 85, of Roebuck, SC. He peacefully departed this world on March 1, 2024, surrounded by his loving family, after a brief yet courageous battle with cancer. Fred was born June 6, 1938, in Cherry Run, WV, to parents Floyd Edward Payne and Reva Pearl Johnson Payne. He was the fourth child among six siblings and grew up in a close-knit family environment. Fred graduated from Hedgesville High School in 1956, where he exhibited his natural talents and a warm-hearted nature that endeared him to many. In 1960, Fred was drafted into the Army, embarking on a journey of service to his country. He underwent basic training and was stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia. A spirited adventurer, Fred discovered that hitchhiking was a quicker mode of travel during his leaves, rather than taking a bus back to West Virginia. It was during one of these journeys in 1961 that he serendipitously met the love of his life, Linda Gayle Zimmerman. Fate intervened as Fred found himself hitchhiking in Atlanta where his future father-in-law picked him up. The moment he laid eyes on Gayle, he was captivated by her beauty and charm, setting the stage for a timeless love story. Their chance meeting blossomed into a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Fred was a man of remarkable character, known for his genuine warmth and outgoing nature as well as his fashion choices of suspenders and sleeveless t-shirts. He had an innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life, never meeting a stranger along the way. His loyalty knew no bounds, and he was a steadfast friend to many, always willing to lend a helping hand whenever needed. In addition to his military service and personal relationships, Fred was deeply engaged in his community. He was a dedicated member of Cedar Spring Baptist Church, where he served as a former deacon. He actively contributed to various church projects, including builds in Montana, Wyoming, West Virginia, and New York with Central Alabama Christian Builders. Fred was also a long-time volunteer at Mountain View Nursing Home, where his compassion and generosity brought comfort to many. Fred's hobbies were a testament to his adventurous spirit and zest for life. He enjoyed camping, embarking on numerous cross-country trips and weekend getaways to state and national parks. His love for cars was legendary, and he found joy in collecting classic vehicles, participating in local car shows. He also made many new friends at local auctions. Woodworking and carpentry were among his many talents, and he took pride in crafting beautiful pieces for his loved ones. Fred was preceded in death by his parents Floyd and Reva Payne, brothers Donald Edward Payne, Leo Richard Payne, James LeRoy Payne, and sister Judy Esther Payne. He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Linda Gayle Zimmerman Payne; his sister Hilda Pearl Payne Fuss of Hedgesville, West Virginia; his son Freddie “Scott” Payne (Allison) of Pauline; and his daughter Susan Payne Ott (Craig) of Nashville, Tennessee. He is also survived by five grandchildren: Nicholas Emery Krull of Jacksonville, Florida, Austin Eli Payne (Alice) of Clermont, Florida, Emily Nicole Krull of Simpsonville, South Carolina, Andrew Bailey Krull of Spartanburg, South Carolina, and William Martin Stigall (Lissa) of Christiansburg, Virginia. Additionally, he is survived by three great-grandchildren: Bowman, Calla, and Van Payne of Clermont, Florida. Arrangements for Fred's memorial service are as follows: Visitation will be held at Dunbar Funeral Home Thursday, March 7th from 5-7pm, followed by a service at Cedar Spring Baptist Church on Friday, March 8th at 11am. In honor of his love for classic vehicles, the family welcomes anyone to drive theirs to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Fred’s memory to Cedar Spring Baptist Church or Spartanburg Regional Hospice. Fred Payne will forever be remembered for his vibrant spirit, his unwavering loyalty, and his boundless love for his family, friends, and country. May he rest in eternal peace, knowing that his legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. In honor of Fred, memorial contributions may be made to: Cedar Spring Baptist Church or Spartanburg Regional Hospice 140 Cedar Spring Place 1530 Drayton Road Spartanburg, SC 29302 Drayton, SC 29333