Paul J. Payne

Paul J. Payne, formerly of Browndale died Sunday morning, March 9, 2025, at the Forest City Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Born September 9, 1934 in Forest City, he was the son of the late Thomas and Celia Pribula Payne. After graduating from high school, Paul joined the army, serving for the United States during the Korean War. He was stationed in New Mexico at the Proving Grounds where he tested munitions and earned the rank of Sergeant. After serving, he attended the University of Scranton on the GI Bill and graduated Summa Cum Laude.

Paul worked as an executive for IBM, spanning a 35-year career. This involved relocations from New York to North Carolina, Germany, and finally to Ridgefield, CT. It was there where he settled for over 25 years and raised his family. He spent his remaining years back in Pennsylvania where he belonged to the Slovenian Heritage Club, American Legion post 524 in Forest City, and was a member of the Ascension Parish. He was also an avid golfer and bowler.

Surviving are his four children, Paul Jr (Barbara), Tom (Danielle), Dan, Jennifer (Gene), a sister Marion Whitecavage and grandchildren; David, Thomas, James, Steven, John, Alex, Mike, Annie, Taylor and Colin; great grandchildren Mason and Ellie, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his first wife Anne Payne, his second wife Mary “Cookie” Payne, a brother Leonard Payne and a sister Cecelia Cianflone.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday March 22 at 12:00 PM in St. Joseph's Church, Forest City. Interment to follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery. Visitation will be at the church from 11:00 AM until Mass time.

Cremation services are through the Kevin M. Lesjack Funeral Home, 513 Main Street, Forest City.

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