Obituary of Ralph Winfred Payne Jr.

Ralph Winfred Payne, Jr. was born and raised in Roanoke, Virginia to the parents of Ralph W. Payne, Sr. and Catherine Hunt Payne on June 25, 1937.  He had one sister, Barbara Jean Payne-Keeling. 

Ralph graduated from Lucy Addison High School in Roanoke, VA and entered the military.  In 1955, he joined the Air Force where he was able to faithfully serve his country and play his favorite sports basketball, baseball, and football.  After serving his term and receiving an honorable discharge, Ralph attended Strayer College and was hired as an accountant with the Federal Aviation Administration. 

Ralph married Cleopatra Marion Dodd in 1964.  Rhonda and Ralph were born out of their union.     After retiring from the federal government, Ralph continued to serve at Northeastern Presbyterian church as the maintenance superintendent and served on the Board of Trustees; and worked with Prince George’s County as an after-school bus driver.  Ralph and Cleo were faithful members to Taber and Northeastern Presbyterian Church and took most pride in raising their children. Ralph was innovative and enjoyed carpentry, artistry and was an avid fisherman.  He loved his family, his friends and his neighbors.  Ralph created memorable moments by hosting cabarets with the Roanoke Gents, attending the former Washington Redskins football games and spending time with his friends at the American Legion.  Those memories will never be forgotten.

Ralph is survived by Rhonda Payne, daughter; Ralph W. Payne, III, son; Sydni A. Payne, granddaughter; Jordan A. Payne, grandson; Cynthia R. Payne, daughter-in-law; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.  He is preceded in death by Cleopatra D. Payne, wife, Barbara J. Keeling, sister, and his parents.