Charles Edward Payne, 95, of St. Joseph went to meet his Lord on Monday, April 29, 2024.
“Ed” was born on May 27, 1928, in Allegan, MI, to Charles E. Payne, Sr. and Henrietta Louisa (Wesseldyk) Payne. He graduated from Allegan High School in 1946 and began studies at the University of Michigan, his Alma Mater. He began military service in May of 1954, as a First Lieutenant (Medical) Reserve in the United States Air Force. After military service he completed his medical training in psychiatry, also at U of M.
He married Thelma Cook, also of Allegan, on April 5, 1952. They, along with their two children, moved to St. Joseph in 1962 where he was in private practice until 1980. He joined Riverwood part time as a Staff Psychiatrist in 1971 and was the Chief Psychiatrist from 1981 until his retirement in 1992.
Ed was a life-long learner, and enjoyed studying languages, and reading scripture in Spanish and German. He studied Hebrew with a rabbi so that he could read scripture in the original language.
He and Thelma loved living on the “Michigan Riviera” and enjoyed many picnics on the bluffs, concerts at the band shell, and visits to the Krasl Art Center. They treasured the friendships formed at the churches they attended, Napier Parkview Baptist Church and First Church of God of St. Joseph.
He is survived by his daughter, Mary (Scott) Payne Donaldson of Cincinnati, OH and son, John Edward Payne of Kalamazoo, MI. He is also survived by his cousin, Dr. James (Linda) Wesseldyk of South Haven, MI, in addition by many loving nieces and nephews.
Ed’s life was enriched by the good people of Southwest Michigan, and he loved serving and living in this beautiful area. The family is grateful for many precious and happy memories.
A private burial will be held at Oakwood Cemetery in Allegan, MI. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Allegan Dollars for Scholars: https://allegan.dollarsforscholars.org; or Youth Mission Trips at the Chapel: www.yourplacetobelong.com/give tap on the fund and select Youth Mission Trip; or the charity of your choice. Those wishing to share a memory of Ed online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com
