Joseph K. Payne

Joseph K. Payne, 80, of Concord, died on May 26, 2004, at the Sun Bridge Nursing Home in Portsmouth, following a period of failing health. Born in North Andover, MA, he was the son of the late Joseph and Margaret Payne. Mr. Payne was a Marine Corps veteran of WWII, and was a recipient of the Purple Heart for injuries he received during combat in the southwest Pacific. He was an Honorary Member of the Disabled American Veterans. He was a retired Federal employee, following many years of service with the US Postal Service, and the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Following his retirement, he moved from Portsmouth, to Washington, NH, where he served as a part-time police officer, in addition to being a part-time officer for the Town of Hillsboro. He later moved to Florida, where he spent 10 years, before returning to New Hampshire and settling in Concord. Mr. Payne was a member of Harmony Lodge #38, F&AM, and a member of American Legion Post 59, both located in Hillsboro. Family members include his wife of 36 years, Barbara S. Payne, of Concord; a son, Kerry, and a daughter, Kimberly, both of Massachusetts, and two grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister, Fran Nelson, of California; three stepchildren, four step-grandchildren, and two step-great grandchildren. There will be no calling hours. A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, June 2nd at 10:00 AM at the New Hampshire State Veteran Cemetery in Boscawen. Donations in Mr. Payne’s name may be made to the St. Paul Mission Fund. The Cremation Society of New Hampshire is in charge of arrangements. To view his on-line memorial or to send condolences go to www.csnh.com.