Harlin Payne

Harlin Lester Payne went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, October 26, 2021. He is reunited with the love of his life, Janice Lee Payne. Harlin retired from US Steel almost 40 years ago, but never stopped working until his health deteriorated a couple of months ago. His work ethic is one that many should strive to model. He was known around Elyria as Les and could be seen most days driving around in his flatbed truck.

He spent his early retirement at the Lorain County Speedway as #21, and as other drivers can tell you, when not at the racetrack, he was in the garage getting ready to be at the racetrack! Born in Webster Springs, West Virginia he learned to live off the land and was known for his beautiful garden bounty. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved his camper and absolutely anything dealing with nature. He has several hunting buddies with whom he looked forward to spending time with and as late as August he was planning the next trip.

He will be missed by many. Harlin is survived by his son, Lonnie (Laura) Payne, granddaughter Jessica Payne Miller (Holly), grandson Stephen Payne, great grandchildren Kingston and Alicia Miller, a sister Erma Payne Hamrick, brothers in law Donovan and Eric Gallaher and sister-in-law Caroline Welch. Also, lifelong friends Floyd Worley, Billy Hopkins and Jack Keffer, along with many other family and friends whom he loved and that love him. The family would like to thank Heartland Hospice and its many providers for their care and attention to Harlin. But many thanks and much love to Brenda Towers, who showered Harlin with attention, love and care that is beyond what many would believe a neighbor is responsible for.

Jesus answered, ‘The first of all commandments ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength’. And the second, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these. Mark 12:30-31

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Pastor Jerry Harper at Abundant Life.

306 Morgan Ave. Elyria, Ohio 44035.

A celebration of Harlin’s life will be planned for a date sometime this summer. More information to follow.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Harlin Payne, please visit our floral store.