Michael F. Payne, 76, of Wichita Falls, passed away on Monday, September 18, 2023.

The family will receive friends at a visitation from 6:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Friday, September 22nd at Lunn's. Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 23rd at Lunn's Chapel with Judge Bob Brotherton officiating. Interment will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Eastview Memorial Park in Vernon, Texas, under the direction of Lunn's Colonial Funeral Home.

A son of the late Juanita (Fleming) and William C. Payne, Michael was born on March 30, 1947, in Biloxi, Mississippi. He graduated from Hirschi High School in Wichita Falls. Following graduation, Michael joined the Air Force Reserves, where he trained as a pilot with the 35th Flying Squadron, serving at 1st Lieutenant at Reese and Lackland Air Force bases.

Michael later attended Midwestern State University earning a BS in economics. He then studied at Texas Tech University for his law degree. Michael enjoyed many careers, including a position as an assistant district attorney for Wichita County before going into private practice as a defense lawyer.

He had a huge love and passion for running marathons, talking about his pilot flying days in the service, as well as his time with the Mavericks in Wichita Falls. Michael also had a great love for dogs including his own Chewy and Jagger.

Michael is survived by the two loves of his life, wife Rhonda and his (little lady) Ashtin. His other loves include Ashley and husband John; Aaron and wife Carley; Masley and 3 grandchildren, Kayden, Carter and Blake; brother, William C. Payne Jr. and wife Judy of Abilene, TX; nieces Molly and husband Brandon Lee of Abilene, TX; and Betsy and husband Jason Green of Johnston, CO; and brother-in-law, Tracy of Dallas, TX.