Bobby Gene Payne

Bobby Gene Payne, 89, passed away August 4, 2022, at White Oak Manor in Shelby, North Carolina.

Bobby was born in Gaston County on February 17, 1933, to the Late Lawrence McKinley Payne and Margaret Tidwell Payne. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers Clarence and William Payne, and his sisters, Elizabeth Woods, Margie Lewis, and Minnie Arrowood.

Bobby served in the US Army and went on to graduate from Belmont Abbey College with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education. He spent his career teaching for Gaston County Schools and retired after 30 years. Bobby was an active member of Lowell-Smyre United Methodist Church where he played music for the congregation. He was also an avid gardener.

Left to cherish Bobby’s memory are numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and many special friends.

The family will receive family and friends from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 24, 2022 at Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home, 2916 Union Road,Gastonia, NC with a Celebration of Life Memorial Service to follow at 2:00 p.m. Saturday in the Chapel of Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home with Rev. Bobby Whittaker officiating.

Inurnment will follow at Hollywood Cemetery with Military Honors to be presented by the North Carolina National Guard and Gaston County Honor Guard.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to be made to: Lowell-Smyre United Methodist Church, 201 North Main Street, Lowell, NC 28098.

Condolences may be made to www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia 704-864-5144 is serving the Family.