Willard M. Payne

Willard M. Payne, 89, of Indianapolis, passed away January 28^th, 2022. He was born January 15^th, 1933, in Onida, Tennessee to parents Estell and Hester (Terry) Payne. He grew up with a loving step mother Suzy (Owens) Payne.

Willard proudly served his country in the United States Army for several years, where he served as a military police officer in Korea.

In June 1956, he married the love of his life, his hometown sweetheart, Carol Hatfield. They shared 66 wonderful years together.

He was a very hard worker and held a variety of jobs throughout his life. Willard was a certified diesel mechanic and worked as an industrial mechanic for Chevy/GM Truck and Bus Group before retiring in 2000.

Willard was a strong, loving man. He was incredibly selfless, willing to help anyone with anything. A talented handyman, Willard could fix anything from a leaky faucet to a motorcycle engine to an HVAC unit. Willard was a valued member of the Murat Shrine Temple and Murat Shrine Police Club and particularly enjoyed serving as a motorcycle escort and drill team member. He was a proud owner of a Harley Davidson motorcycle. In his spare time, Willard loved being outdoors, camping, boating, and fishing as often as possible. Above all, he adored time with his family and friends.

Willard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife Carol; son Kevin Payne; daughter Pam Abram (Butch); three grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren; sister Mildred Dellarco; Brother Manford Payne; half-sisters Liz and Sue; and half brother Ira Payne; and his dog, Diva.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Willard will be laid to rest at Washington Park East Cemetery.