Kenneth Payton

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Kenneth Ames Payton, age 77, of Carl Junction, Missouri, passed away on Sunday afternoon, February 16, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri, after months of failing health. He entered this life on May 4, 1947, in Joplin, Missouri, the eldest of thirteen children born to the union of the late Ames Delbert Payton, Jr. and Lottie Catherine (Bruton) Payton.

Kenneth, was a lifelong resident of Carl Junction, Missouri. Kenneth's professional life was spent as a dedicated laborer at a Carl Junction machine shop, until his well-earned retirement. 

He married Sandra Adams on February 14, 1969 and together they shared forty-eight years before her passing on December 18, 2017. Kenneth's life was one of simple pleasures. He had a passion for working on old cars. His hands were rarely clean, as he found joy and solace in the engines and frames of classic automobiles.

He is survived by his eight brothers, Donald, Germie, Dwight, James, Everett, Billy, Junior, and Johnny Payton; his sister, Wilma Paxton; a sister-in-law, Sharon Adams; a brother-in-law, Clarence Admas, II; as well as a host of other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Sandra Payton; two sisters, Agnes Louise Day and Deliah Pearlee Payton; and a brother, Johnny Lee Payton.

Kenneth's life was one of simple pleasures, hard work, and deep connections. His absence will be profoundly felt, but his influence will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched. The memories of his kindness, his laughter, and his unwavering support will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Graveside services are pending at this time.