Raymond "Ray" Earl Payne, 46, of Osceola, Indiana, passed away at his home on April 19, 2026.

He was born on August 2, 1979, in Michigan City, Indiana, to August and Evelyn (Becker) Payne, Sr. Ray spent his early childhood in Three Oaks, Michigan, before moving to Tennessee, where he graduated from Bradley Central High School in Cleveland, Tennessee. He remained in Tennessee until 2020, when he returned to Northwest Indiana.

Ray worked in the construction trade for many years and also as a truck driver for PTL and Tindles in Knoxville, Tennessee. He was a devoted fan of the Michigan Wolverines, and his daughters fondly remember him cheering passionately for his team—especially football.

In his free time, Ray enjoyed watching television, especially shows like Storage Wars and programs on the History Channel. He had a deep interest in history and war documentaries, inspired in part by his father’s service in World War II and the Korean War. Recently, he began his spiritual journey with the Seventh-day Adventist Church in South Bend, Indiana.

Ray was known for his larger-than-life personality. He was funny, loud, and full of energy—you often heard him before you saw him. He had a goofy, playful nature, like a big kid at heart. Above all, he loved deeply and cared for those around him. Even with his imperfections, he remained a truly remarkable man who left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

He is survived by his daughters, Kaylie Payne (fiancé Elijah King) of Cleveland, Tennessee, and McKenzi Payne of Riceville, Tennessee; his adoptive mother, Diane (Bill) White; and his siblings, Gilbert Payne of Georgia, Beth (Mac) Schrader of Sawyer, Michigan, Leslie Jenkins, Kim White-Ward, Lori White Beshears, Brad (Betty) Payne, Ron (Margaret) Payne, Johnny (Tammy) Payne, and Daniel Payne. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, August Payne, Sr. and Evelyn Payne, and his brother, August Payne, Jr.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place.

 Ray Funeral Services, 305 Rock River Ave., Three Rivers, Michigan 49093, has been entrusted with his care.

Please visit www.rayfuneralservices.com to gather and share in Ray's memory.