LOWVILLE, NY — Robert Harold Payne, 82, of North State Street, Lowville, passed away Wednesday morning, May 26, 2021, at his home under the loving care of his family and Lewis County Hospice.
A private funeral service will be held for his immediate family. There will be no calling hours.
Extended family and friends are welcome to attend a graveside service at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, May 29, 2021, in Wildwood Cemetery, Lyons Falls, with Pastor Laurie Sponaugle officiating.
Robert was born Aug. 23, 1938, in Honesdale, PA, the son of the late Dr. Harold and Mary Leah Smith Payne. He graduated in 1960 from East Stroudsburg University. He taught history at General Martin High School from 1960 to 1963.
Robert married Dorothy Burdick on September 20, 1963 at Forest Presbyterian Church, Lyons Falls.
He then taught at South Lewis Central School from 1963 – 1994 and retired as Dean of Students in 1994.
Robert was an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Lowville.
He was a life member of BPOE #1605, Lowville Elks Lodge and a member of Copper Creek Hunting Association, Lyonsdale.
Robert is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Dorothy; three children and their spouses, William and Melissa Payne of Glenfield, Bethany and Todd Perry of Malone, and Barbara and Kenneth Bibbins of Adams; 10 grandchildren and one great granddaughter; a brother and sister-in-law, William and Elizabeth Payne of Harrisburg, PA; two sisters, Melva Parsons of Greentown, PA, and Cheryl Perry of Waverly, NY; several nieces, nephews and cousins.
An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, and playing golf. He also enjoyed reading about history.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Lowville, 7707 North State Street, Lowville, NY 13367 or to Lowville Food Pantry, 7646 Forest Ave, Lowville, NY 13367.
