Daniel Lee Payne

It is with great sadness that the family of Daniel Lee Payne announce his passing on January 31, 2026 in Houston, TX. Daniel was born on March 3, 1947 in Palestine, TX to parents Daniel Grady and Ruby Lee (Wilbanks) Payne. From an early age, Daniel had a deep love for the outdoors and could often be found hunting or fishing, depending on the season. He came from a musically talented family and enjoyed singing and playing the harmonica. As a young man, Daniel proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1968. On February 8, 1968, Daniel married the love of his life, Frances Elizabeth Hymel. During their nearly 58 years of marriage, they lived in several states, including Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Kansas before ultimately settling back in their home state of Texas. Daniel was a master electrician and spent many years dedicated to his trade. In the early 2000s, he went into business with his brother, performing both residential and commercial electrical work. Daniel was an avid reader, a passion that only grew stronger after his retirement—often reading three or four books a day. He was also a jokester and a prankster. Always plotting to play a prank on somebody or tell a funny joke. Daniel was a man that had a mind of his own and stood firmly on his beliefs. If he made his mind up on something, there was no changing it. Daniel had a knack for making people feel welcome. If he gave you a nickname, you knew you were a keeper and had a special place in his heart! Daniel is preceded in death by his parents; brothers Hayden Payne and Kenneth Payne; and son Kevin Daniel Payne. Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife Frances “Bear” Payne; children Renae Thomas (Joel), and Jason Payne (Andrea); seven sisters - Delores Gatewood, Esther Dickens, Rose Wilkerson (Shorty), Amy Shirey, Vickie Perry (Tim), Laura Barefield, and Ados Largent; grandchildren Amber Noble, Bryce Jenkins, Becky Kent, Chance Payne, Jonathon Bradford, Jocey Payne, Davis Payne, Jazzy Payne, Gracie B. Payne, Presley Payne, Hannah Harbour, and Gracie Jo Harbour; great grandchildren Adalynn Noble, Andrew Noble, Aubrey Jenkins, Lyla Jenkins, Amara Bradford, John Bradford, Jr., Ayren and Jay. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law. Daniel was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Information about a gathering to celebrate Daniel’s life will be shared later this month.

Daniel Lee Payne

March 3, 1947 - January 31, 2026