Rev. William Henry Payne, Sr., 84, of Winston-Salem, NC went home to be with the Lord on Thursday afternoon, November 15, 2018 after an extended period of health challenges.  He was a true soldier of the Lord and his departure can be expressed in the same words of the Apostle Paul in II Timothy 4:7: I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. He was born October 22, 1934 in Winston-Salem to the late Doris Payne & William Covington.

Rev. Payne was educated in the Winston-Salem Forsyth County Schools.  He worked the majority of his life as a head chef at Sam's Gourmet and retired in his latter years from Hanesbrands, Inc.  He was a faithful member of First Waughtown Baptist Church for 28 years and was affectionately known as "Dad" by his beloved church family.  Up until his decline in health, he served faithfully on the ministerial staff, served as instructor for the Noon-Day Bible Study, the Men's Sunday School Class, as well as sung on the Men's Choir.  He was an anointed singer and enjoyed singing praises to God. All that knew him was touched by his melodious voice and heartfelt worship to the Lord.  His favorite songs included: "Your Grace and Mercy", "I Won't Complain", and "Amazing Grace".

Rev. Payne was a devoted family man and took great delight during times of family fellowship.  He leaves to cherish his memory the following family members: a devoted wife of 39 years, Geneva Payne; 10 Children, Sandra White (Sergio), Minister Cynthia Dixon (Minister Jarrod), Lamont Witherspoon (Denise), Carlos Witherspoon (Violet), Cedric Witherspoon (Dana), Chalmagne Green (Alphonso), William Payne, Jr. (Morgan), Bonita Matthews, Doris Hampton (Nathan), and Anthony Payne; one uncle, Sandy Payne; and a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren. Rev. Payne also had a special love for his Pastor, Dr. Dennis Bishop whom he affectionately referred to as his son.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00noon Wednesday, November 21, 2018 at First Waughtown Baptist Church, 838 Moravia Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27107 with Dr. Dennis Bishop officiating. Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery.   The family visitation will be held from 11:30am until 12:00noon on Wednesday at the Church.