MILFORD - We lost our beloved son, brother, friend and patriot on April 18, 2015. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, George traveled the world during his lifetime. He attended college in Colorado, and then served two tours of duty in Vietnam with the Army. Later he joined the Air Force Reserves and flew many missions during Desert Shield, Desert Storm, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. George finished his military career as a flight engineer instructor on the C5 transports for the 512th Airlift Wing in Dover. George was preceded in death by his father, George L. Payne, Sr. He is survived by his mother, Stella A. Payne; five siblings, Donna L. Duval of Winchester, Mass., James S. of Minneapolis, Minn., Patricia A. of Billings, Mont., Robert J. of Raleigh, N.C., and Thomas E. of Wilmington ; ten nieces and nephews, and seven grand nieces and nephews. He had many friends as an active member of the Burnt Ducks Hunting Club, Ducks Unlimited, and the VFW 6843 Blue Hen Post. Everyone knew George as a caring, kind person who shared his time, tales, talents, and curiosity with us all. We will miss him dearly. Burial will be private. The family suggests donations in George's memory be made to: It's All Good In Delaware, Inc., P.O. Box 493, Camden, DE, 19934. Arrangements by Lofland Funeral Home, Milford.