Donald Edward Payne

Donald Payne, son of the late Edward Payne and Anna Mae Greenfield, was born on January, in Baltimore, Maryland. He departed this life on May 29, 2009 after a lengthy illness.He received his education in Baltimore City, graduating from Douglass High School June 1951. After graduation he enrolled at Morgan State University. A year later, he was offered and accepted a position with the United States Postal Service. He retired at the age of 55.He was a life long member of St. Peter Claver Catholic Church. Within the church circle he joined the Holy Name Society men’s group. The men worked with the church youth to instill God-like examples. He was the treasurer. On February 25, 1952, he married Ida Samuels, and from this union three children were born, Donald Jr., Courtenay and Kirby.Donald made numerous friends wherever he went, and everyone who knew him loved him dearly. He had an exceptional love for sports (especially basketball), reading and writing. During his spare time he worked as a softball and basketball sports official. When Operation Champ’s program was successful Donald was hired as their top sports official. When Operation Champ’s program was successful Donald was hired as their top sports official. He was excellent and very fair to all. Also he was employed by Recreation and Parks in their summer softball program. In 1967 Donald was instrumental in initiating a community basketball team to play against the incarcerated individuals within the Maryland State Penitentiary. This was the first time any outsiders were allowed to mingle and work with inmates.He belonged to a number of social clubs such as the Old Timers Basketball team, YMCA, Pyramids, and the retired Federal Postal Workers. If you knew Donald, you will remember his fondness of horses and frequent visits to the racetrack. He was affectionately known as “Big Ed” to his racetrack buddies. He will really be missed by his weekly lunch bunch at Cactus Willie Wednesday.He leaves to cherish his memory and celebrate his life: one son, Donald Payne Jr. (daughter Courtnaye and son Kirby preceded him in death); three grandchildren, Kirby Jr., Ravia and Courtney Payne; four great-grandchildren, Corey, Courtenaye and Mackenzie Payne and Kenaz Pettigrew; his loyal friend who took loving care of him during his illness, Christine Kendall; his childhood playmates, Clarence Shad Brown, Jr., William Dickerson, Wilburt Hassell, Cleve Brister, Hezekiah Braxton, Howard Campbell, James Newton, Willard Wright, Warren Hayman, Arthur Bragg, Ted Redmond, Charles Green and Gordon Baker; nieces, nephews, a host of other relatives and friends.

Tributes

Donald Edward Payne

January 12, 1934 - May 29, 2009