Merrel John Payne 1910-1986

Merrel John Payne, son of Lige and DeLitha Kissinger Payne, was born in Swedeborg, on November 16, 1910 and departed this life on July 20, 1986 in Springfield, Missouri at the age of seventy five years.

On March 4, 1939, Merrel was united in marriage with Bonnie Lundstrom, and to this union was born three sons, all surviving.

As a young man, he professed his faith in Jesus Christ, and became a member of the Swedeborg Christian Church, where he remained a member.

Merrel has farmed in the Pulaski County area most all his life.  He was a member of the Richland Masonic Lodge and the Eastern Star, and for many years, served on the Swedeborg School Board and was Commissioner of the Special Road District.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, July 23, 1986 at 10:00 a.m. with Ministers John Davenport and Rev. Roger Marshall officiating, under the direction of Colonial Funeral Chapel.

Resting place was in the Bethlehem Cemetery.

Escorts were: Gerald Payne, Ralph Peterson, Donald Witt, Carl Peterson, Lindell Roam, and Phillip York.

Honorary escorts were: Ralph Hightower, Jim Bill Goforth, Luke Brickey, Bud Witt, Charles P. Goforth and Ralph King.

He is survived by his wife Bonnie of the home; three sons, Merrel Lee and Kerry, both of Richalnd, Bryce of Eldorado Springs, Missouri; four sisters, Grace Manes of Swedeborg, Cora Harris of Ashland, Missouri, Bertha Peterson and Eula York, both of Richland; five grandchildren and one great granddaughter; other relatives and friends.

Merrel is preceded in death by his parents, one brother Earl, and two sisters, Ethel eckman and Carmel Roam.