Franklin, VA- Pat Steven Payne, 76, passed away peacefully at home and surrounded by loved ones on July 4, 2025.  Pat was born on December 3, 1948 and was raised in Portsmouth as the son of the late James Dalton Payne and Bessie Mae Modlin Payne.  After graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School, Pat served in the National Guard for six years.  Pat worked as a salesman over the years, notably with The Quality Shop and Channel Furniture, and was very knowledgeable in men's suits and fine furniture.

Pat was known for his kind and gentle spirit, and he lived his entire life as a Christian example to all. He was a lifelong member of Park View Baptist Church where he served as a deacon, on various committees, as well as sang in the choir.  Another joy in his life was fishing, particularly surf fishing at Nags Head with family and friends in his younger years.

Left to cherish his memory include his wife of almost 52 years and high school sweetheart, Kathy Polson Payne, a daughter, Megan Kathryn Payne Everett (Lewis), two grandchildren Logan Kathryn Everett and Sawyer Lewis Everett, a brother, Paul Payne (Emily) of Mississippi, a brother and sister in law (Roy & Jerilyn Polson), as well as nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family wishes to thank the caregivers and nurses, especially Vickey Beale, who showed Pat the utmost care and compassion within his last few months of life.

A celebration of Pat's life will be held at Wright Funeral Home in Franklin on Thursday, July 10th with a visitation at 1:00 followed by the service at 2:00.  A private burial will follow at Beechwood Cemetery in Boykins, VA, where he will be laid to rest with family.

In lieu of flowers and in honor of his memory, donations can be sent to either of the following, which were both dear to his heart:

EverBless Foundation, Park View Baptist Church Fund, 2828 Emerywood Parkway, Henrico,VA 23294 or The Salvation Army, Portsmouth Gift Processing Center, PO Box 12517 Richmond, VA 23241-0517.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org.