William David Payne, 100, of Hardin, KY, passed away on Thursday, February 24, 2022 at Spring Creek Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Murray.
He was born on February 28, 1921 in Waverly, KY, to his late parents, Charles and Mary Hendrickson Payne. Dave retired after 21 years, as a veteran of the United States Army Air Corps in 1964. He joined the Army Air Corps after graduating from high school, when he saw an advertisement, “Join Air Corps and see Hawaii.” After which, he was awakened by the bombing of Pearl Harbor. During his service, he worked on planes that flew food and coal to people on the east side of the Berlin Wall. He also served at the Panama Canal. Dave loved traveling and gardening. After retirement, he bought and flew a small airplane. He also enjoyed riding his Harley. To his family and friends, he is our national treasure.
Dave is survived by his wife of 70 years, Lula Mae Wealand Payne; one daughter, Sherry Lee McGee (Charles “Tre”) of Cordova, TN; three grandchildren, Charles T. McGee (Latisha) of Olive Branch, MS; Wendy McGee Fleming (Mark) Holly Springs, MS; A. David McGee (Brittany) of Cordova, TN; seven grandchildren, Zyon McGee, Autumn McGee, Hannah McGee, Weston McGee, Landon Fleming, Ayla McGee, Lincoln Fleming.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his one son, John Paul Payne.
Memorial graveside services will be scheduled at a later date with burial in Waverly Cemetery in Waverly, TN.
Filbeck-Cann Funeral Home of Milner and Orr is in charge of arrangements.
You may light a candle or leave a message for the family at www.morgansfuneralhome.com.