On Monday, August 8, 2022 while a patient at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist High Point Medical Center, Byron L. Payne made the transition from Earthly life to Life Everlasting. We give honor to our Lord and will forever be grateful for the years we shared our loved one's life. He is in no more pain and no longer suffering.

"Bookie," as he was affectionately called, was born on August 29, 1967 in Forsyth County, North Carolina to the late Robert F. Payne and Josephine B. Payne. Bryon attended the public schools of Davidson County, North Carolina, graduating with the class of 1987 from Lexington Senior High School. "Bookie" was well-known for being the "track star" during his high school years. After high school, his dream was to serve his country; he enlisted in the United States Navy. Returning to civilian life, he enrolled in Cross Country Truck Driving School, graduating August 17, 2004. Committed to learning new things and advancing in life, Bryon graduated with honors from Davidson County Community College on May 12, 2012 with an Associate Degree in Auto Mechanic.

Bookie was small in stature, but had a "big heart." He never met a stranger. He enjoyed life and making you laugh. A protector of those he loved and held close to his heart, he carried a song in his heart and enjoyed listening to music. A true believer in the statement, "I am my brother's keeper," Bryon would give his last to help a person in need. Everyone who came across Bryon's path is better because he touched them with kindness.

Byron was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Vickie Friday, Marian Nixon and Rosa Renee McCluney.

He leaves to cherish his memory a son, Ta'Norris (Erin Cranford) Payne, Sr.; his daughter, Sheketea (Larry Davis) Holmes; four brothers: Bishop Quinton (Donna) Boger, Robert Boger, Horace (Wanda) Roman and Syndey Boger; a sister, Tameka Pringle; four grandchildren: Jaylen Henderson, Ta'Norris Payne, Jr., Zion Holmes and Za'Karhi Holmes; two brothers-in law, Raymond Friday and Roland Nixon; an uncle, Dexter Boger; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.


The funeral will be Monday at Lexington Deliverance Tabernacle at 1:00 PM with family visitation at 12:30 PM prior to the service.