Timothy John Payne

Timothy J. Payne, 77, of Rutland, Vermont, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026, in Keene, New Hampshire.

Tim was born on January 5, 1949, in Cortland, New York, the son of Reide B. Payne and Patricia Gill (Payne). He was a 1966 graduate of Mount St. Joseph High School.

He proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1967 to 1971. His service included training at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center and Submarine School in New London, Connecticut. Tim went on to serve more than three years aboard a nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), including service on the USS Thomas Jefferson. He remained deeply connected to his fellow submariners and took great pride in his naval service throughout his life.

Tim enjoyed fishing and hunting in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom and found great joy in the outdoors. He especially cherished his time with the Loyal Order of Moose, Lodge 1122 of Rutland, which he often referred to as his second family. Through the Moose, he mentored many, built lifelong friendships, and traveled extensively.

A devoted and lifelong member of the Loyal Order of Moose, Lodge 1122, Tim dedicated decades of service to the organization he loved. Over the years, he held numerous leadership roles including Governor, Junior Governor, Junior Past Governor, Treasurer, Trustee, Prelate, and Chairman of several committees such as Government Relations, Membership, Auditing, and Activities.

His commitment extended beyond the local lodge, as he also served the Northeast Moose Association in a variety of regional leadership positions, including Vice President, President, Junior Past President, Treasurer, and Prelate. In recognition of his leadership and dedication, he was honored with a Fraternal Appointment as Deputy Supreme Governor for the Northeast. His service reflected a deep belief in fellowship, service, and community.

In recognition of his exceptional service, Tim attained the honor of Pilgrim. He was also a member of the American Legion Post #31, a lifetime member of the VFW #648 where he previously served as Past Chaplain and Quartermaster, a member of the Vermont Submarine Unit, and a proud member of the Carpenters Union.

He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Dennis Payne.

Tim will be sadly missed by his longtime companion, Cindy Sargeant, his sister-in-law Deborah Payne and his beloved feline companion, “Buddy,” along with many friends, brothers of the Moose, fellow veterans, and all those whose lives he touched through mentorship, service, and friendship.

A celebration of Tim’s life will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Loyal Order of Moose, Lodge 1122, located at 78 Center Street, Rutland, Vermont.

Burial with military honors will take place on Monday, April 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph Center, Vermont.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Cremation Society of New Hampshire.