Frankie Lee Payne

It is with joyful hearts that we announce the passing of Frankie Lee Payne, a beloved husband and father, much-loved PawPaw, proud electrician, and cherished friend, who left us on September 25, 2026. He was a bright light in our lives, known for his kind spirit and unwavering faith.

Frankie is survived by his loving wife, Valerie Payne, who will forever cherish the memories they built together; sons, Heath Payne (Nichole), Scott Watts, Seth Payne; daughters, Erica Payne, Valerie Mathews (Doug); brothers, Roy Barker, Doug Elliot; sisters, Leaha Roth, Stephanie Wegrzyn, Mary Elliott, Kim Vollmerhausen; ten grandchildren; three great-grandchildren.

Frankie was preceded in death by his parents, Bill Payne and Billie Stringer Barker; brother, Perry Payne; sister, Judy Aniol.

He will be remembered for his 42 years as a children's church teacher, where he inspired and nurtured young minds with his energetic magnetism and dedication. Frankie was also a proud member of Life of Faith Fellowship and his love for service was evident in everything he did.

Outside of his commitments to church and family, Frankie had a passion for creating beautiful leather and bead jewelry and enjoyed refurbishing Converse shoes-always adding his special touch. He was a true Detroit Tigers fan, often heard cheering loudly for his team. Frankie also had a sweet tooth and could always be found enjoying coffee and tasty treats, and might share them with friends and family, if they asked nicely.

A memorial service to celebrate Frankie's life will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Life of Faith Fellowship, 2854 Beaty Rd, Gastonia, NC, 28056. Following the service, the family invites everyone to gather in the fellowship hall for a time of sharing memories and fellowship.

Though he may be gone from our sight, Frankie's spirit and love will live on in all of us. We invite everyone whose life he touched to join us in honoring his memory and celebrating the beautiful life he lived.

The South Chapel of Greene Funeral Service is honored to serve the Payne family. Condolences may be shared online at: www.greenefuneral.com.