Terry Payne

(From Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home)

Terry L. Payne, 77, of Parsons, passed away the morning of Sunday, December 29, 2024, at Advena Living of Cherryvale.

Terry Lee Payne was born on September 18, 1947, to Robert Lee and Mary Colleen (Spencer) Payne in Independence, Kansas. After graduating from Erie High School, he served in the United States Navy in Vietnam.

He worked for over 30 years at the Parsons State Hospital and Training Center, retiring as an HVAC technician.

He was a member of the Brown-Bishop VFW Post 704 and Elks Lodge # 527. For a time, he was the president of the Big Hill Bassmasters.

Known for his good humor and storytelling, Terry never knew a stranger. He enjoyed going fishing, but his greatest joy was spending time with his family.

On July 26, 1975, Terry and Deborah J. Buskirk were united in marriage. She preceded him in death on August 6, 1994. Terry and Mary Malissa Forbes were united in marriage on December 10, 2022. She preceded him in death on August 15, 2023.

Survivors include:

Two daughters – Tiffany Payne of Parsons, Kansas

Jennifer Payne (Kurt Forbes) of Parsons, Kansas

Two step-children – Sean Westhoff of Wichita, Kansas

Melanie Sherwood (John) of LaHarpe, Kansas

Six grandchildren – Reece Mensch of Parsons, Kansas; Ryleigh, Lainey and Cayden Forbes of Parsons, Kansas; Kyle Leistikow (Monica) of Altoona, Kansas; and Madison Cravens (Tyler) of Wichita, Kansas

One brother – Bill Payne (Sherry) of Oronogo, Missouri

One sister – Judy Barney of Parsons, Kansas

Numerous nieces and nephews

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Deborah J. (Buskirk) Payne; his wife, Mary Malissa (Forbes) Payne; and his best friend, Jim Peoples.

The graveside service with military honors will be at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Altamont.

Memorials are suggested to the Wounded Warrior Project. These may be left at or mailed to Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 374, Parsons, KS 67357.