Obituary for Donald Welford Payne

August 18, 1934 – October 7, 2024

Donald Welford Payne, affectionately known as Sonny, passed away on October 7, 2024, in Frederick, MD, at the age of 90.  Born on August 18, 1934, in Washington, DC, Sonny led a fulfilling life marked by his loyalty, inventive problem-solving ability and unwavering commitment to his wife and family.

Don began his career at the Navy Yard in DC, later working for Coca-Cola and various auto repair shops in the area.  He found his calling as a distributor for Mac Tools, where he combined his love for mechanics and tools. Sonny’s passion for mechanics extended into his hobbies; he enjoyed building cars with his friends during his teenage years.  His adventurous spirit soared as he earned his aviation pilot license, often flying his plane across the skies.  An avid gardener, Sonny was known for his abundant cherry tomatoes. He met the love of his life and dated her under the cherry blossoms along the Potomac River. They were married just shy of fifty years.  Most importantly, Don cherished time spent with his family from camping trips in the motor home to multigenerational celebrations and holiday gatherings.

Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gisele Davenport Payne; his mother, Dorothy Berwick and his brothers, David Payne and his wife, Monica, as well his younger brother, Richard Kendall. He is survived by his family who adored him deeply: Barbara Danner and her son, Eric Danner and his wife, Amanda and their son, Quinn and her daughter, Elizabeth Danner; Linda Hose and her sons, Brandon Hose and his wife, Sarah; Taylor and his wife, Sara; and Blake Hose; and Glen Payne and his wife, Leesa and their daughter, Amanda Barnhard, and her husband, Blair and their children, Brody and Alivia. Uncle Don was loved by several generations of cousins, nieces and nephews.

There will be a memorial to celebrate Don’s life on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 11 am at the Molesworth-Williams Funeral Home, 26401 Ridge Road, in Damascus, MD. Sonny’s life and legacy will be remembered fondly by all who knew him, as well as a man who solved problems like MacGyver and loved deeply like no other. 

Don's family wishes to sincerely thank the dedicated staff at Frederick Health for their support and compassionate care of our father.

Online condolences may be shared with his family on our website at www.molesworthwilliams.com