Ralph "Tony" Anthony Payne

Ralph Anthony “Tony” Payne, 66, passed away Tuesday, March 9th, 2021 wrapped in the loving arms of his wife at home.  Over the last several years, Tony has battled multiple challenges with a determination to overcome and rebound, with grace and dignity along with an unbelievable positive spirit that has inspired many along the way.

Tony was preceded in death by their beloved son, Anthony Michael, his mother, Virginia, his brother-in-law Don, who was like a father to him over the years, and his sister Patsy, as well as his cherished beagles, Snoopy, Cassiopeia and Willie.

Tony is survived by his wife of 41 years, Karen, whom he called “my girl”.  In addition, he is survived by his granddaughter, Bella, who is the apple of his eye that lovingly called him” Grumps”.  He is also survived by his sister, Margaret, his sister-in-law Debbie (Paul) and brother-in-law Andy (Teri) as well as several nieces and nephews.

Tony was known for his wild Hawaiian shirts, his sparkling and animated presence, his pranking sense of humor, his willingness to help anyone and his 110% commitment to anything he tackled.  He loved the beach, traveling, fishing and woodworking.

A private family service will be held later.  In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to AARF or Trellis Hospice & Palliative Care of WS.   Just as important, Tony would want his final message to be for everyone to stop and realize that life is short; cherish what you have, do not take your health for granted, enjoy your life, whatever you are dealt, and to understand the importance of what you do while you are here on this earth. Because you may never realize how a kind deed, a hug, or just someone else watching your struggles may inspire greatness in someone else.

The family would like to offer their sincere gratitude to the following whom without their help this journey would have been more of a struggle than it was: Dr. Heidi Marlow Rogers (and Mt. View Medical).  Trellis Hospice and Palliative Care, all the employees on FMC’s  7th Floor Neuro group and 8th Floor Palliative Care group, Dr. Colin McDonald (who called him the Energizer Bunny because he kept going with every setback) his wonderful caregiver, Frannie, as well as all his friends and family who were by his side throughout his journey.

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