George Thomas Payne

George Thomas Payne, age 61, was born October 26, 1961 in Endicott, New York to Alan and Loretta Payne. He was welcomed into their family as the sixth child of ten, their third son. George’s time here on Earth ended in his DeLand, Florida home on Monday, June 16, 2025. 

George started life in small town USA and had the privilege of living in many different locations from New York to Florida. His father was a well-known pool builder in the Daytona area. Immediate and extended family all surrounded him with love and compassion throughout his life. George was gifted with an infectious smile and good humor. Among many other wonderful attributes, his laugh will be missed as it would brighten any day. He attended the University of Kentucky and was a graduate of UCF with a Bachelor's degree in Physical Education; although most of his life was spent as an entrepreneur in pool construction and real estate in the central Florida area. 

George was an accomplished youth baseball pitcher in the Holly Hill area. Family functions classically included his coordinated games for both the young and old. Countless hours were spent watching baseball and rooting for the Tampa Bay Rays. He loved riding his bicycle through the beaches of his hometown. Evenings frequently consisted of long bike rides and walks. 

Preceded in death by his parents, Alan (Bud) and Loretta Payne, older siblings, Ellis and Mary. 

Survived by brothers and sisters: Leslie Mitchell (Neil), Keith Payne, Nancy Sweringen (Chuck), Robert Luke Payne (Paula), Katie Shaw (Eddie), Lauretta Payne, John Payne (Laura) and many very loved nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and even some great, great nieces and nephews. 

George loved Florida’s sunshine as it provided opportunity to participate in numerous sporting activities. Spelling and trivia challenges undoubtedly ended in his favor! Numbers were a fascination for him which provided the gift of remembering birthdays for each of our numerous family members. George’s family will be holding a private celebration of life in remembrance of him.