Melvin Earnest Payne

Mel E. Payne of Vicksburg passed away peacefully on September 18, 2021, at age 70. Mel was born on November 7, 1950, in Kalamazoo, MI the son of the late Marie (Kinser) and Clifton Payne. He was married to Coleen Payne (Campbell) on August 7, 1976. Mel joined the Salvation Army at a very young age and played in their band. He was involved with them for several years. Mel proudly served his country in the US Army when duty called. He loved to play the guitar and sing. Mel was an avid bowler and fisherman; he also enjoyed a good game of cribbage. Mel spent most of his time being a thoughtful and loving husband, father, and grandfather. Mel was preceded in his passing by his parents: Marie and Clifton Payne. Left to cherish his loving memory is his spouse of 45 years, Coleen, and two children: Kevin (Teresa) Payne; Colette (Andy) Axe. Also surviving are his brother, Terry Payne, and his very special cousin, Larry Warner. Mel was also the proud grandpa of three grandsons: Josh Axe, Bryton Payne, and Kaeden Payne. These boys were the love of his life, there was nothing he wouldn’t do for any of them. In-laws, Kat Campbell, Barb (John) Krueger, Jim (Terri) Campbell, and Kevin Campbell. Additionally, Mel had many nieces, nephews, and cousins as well as his canine companion, Honey. In accordance with the family’s wishes a public visitation will be held at McCowen & Secord Family Funeral Homes Rupert-Durham Chapel, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097, on Thursday, September 23, 2021, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Mel will be laid to rest at Fort Custer National Cemetery the following day, Friday, September 24, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. Following the committal service the Payne family would like friends to join them at River Oaks Clubhouse, 226 Taft Street, Battle Creek, MI 49014, for a luncheon celebrating Mel’s life. Memorials made in Mel’s memory may be directed to Glenn Arbor Hospice of Battle Creek, MI. While visiting Mel’s tribute page please take a moment to light a candle or share a memory with the family. The Payne family is being assisted by McCowen & Secord Family Funeral Homes Rupert-Durham Chapel, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097. 269-649-1697.