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Thomas Robert Payne

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[July 05, 2019]  LINCOLN - Thomas Robert Payne, 61, of Lincoln, raced his way to the checkered flag on Monday, July 1, 2019.

Celebration of Life: Wednesday, July 3, 2019 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Lincoln Masonic Lodge # 210.

Masonic Rites:  Wednesday at 8 p.m.

Memorial Service:  Wednesday at 8:20 p.m.

Funeral home: Peasley Funeral Home, Lincoln     

Obituary

Thomas Robert Payne, 61, of Lincoln, raced his way to the checkered flag on Monday, July 1, 2019. His engine first revved on January 7th, 1958 in Buffalo, son of Thomas Arthur (Owner) and Patsy Ann Payne (Team Manager) who preceded him in crossing the finish line. He married Peggy Irene Payne on February 15th, 1995 and she will always be his number one fan and Crew Chief. With only three laps to go, Tom blew his tires after suffering complications from surgery. The caution flag was waved and he was immediately taken to pit row, where his team helped him trade in his race car for a motorized wheelchair. He had to get used to the new chassis and significant decrease in horsepower, but he did it all with the support of his family and a positive outlook.

His pit crew included his daughters; Lorinda (Alan) Griffith of Atlanta, Autum (Ed) Robison of Lincoln,  Amber Geggie of Lincoln, and Larisa (Chuck) Demling of Ewa Beach, HI. He formed lasting friendships and considered Chad Batson as a member of his pit crew as well. Still running their laps are his sister, Lori Mullet, of Buffalo, and his brother, Ron (Tammy) Payne, of Springfield. With 11 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and his dog, Annabelle, drafting right behind them.

 

Funeral Director

Tom spent his time away from the races as a member of Wade Barney Lodge #512 AF & AM in Bloomington.  He was also a member of Illinois DeMolay in his youth and was an avid supporter of the organization throughout his life. He enjoyed gardening, barbecuing, photography, air conditioning, complaining about the weather, and St. Louis Cardinals baseball. He loathed the Cubs, Tony Stewart, corrupt politicians, and for unknown reasons, the state of Ohio. Most importantly, Tom was a devoted and loving husband to his wife Peggy, and he was either really brave or just plain nuts, when he stepped into the father role to her four daughters; who will forever be grateful for his love, support, and encouragement.

A celebration of life and announcement of the winner of the race will be on Wednesday, July 3, 2019 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Lincoln Masonic Lodge # 210.

Masonic Rites will be held at 8:00 p.m. following the visitation. A Memorial Service will follow at 8:20 p.m. with Mr. Michael Mallick officiating.

In lieu of flowers and trophies, the family suggests memorials to Illinois Demolay. And always remember, life is too short to drive slow.

Peasley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.


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