Thomas Joseph (TJ) Payne, Sr. “Wamni Wagan Hokshina” High Eagle Boy, age 39, passed away December 12, 2019 at his home in Wolf Point, MT.
TJ was born November 21, 1980 to Thomas Franklin Payne and Darla Jackson. He grew up in Oswego and Wolf Point area. He attended school in Wolf Point and Frazer school. He worked for A & S industries machine operator and as a ranch/farm hand for the Fort Peck Tribal Ranch and along with other farmers on the River bottom including his uncle Carl. He moved to Louisiana and returned back to his home where he spent time with his daughter Kaelyn and his nephew Jaxon.
He played baseball youth sports in Wolf Point and was a fan of the Chicago Bears. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He grew up with his siblings and cousins. He enjoyed hanging out with his cousin Carl (Kid) Payne. TJ was always laughing and had a great sense of humor.
TJ is survived by his children Tommy Payne, Kaelyn Payne, and Dakota Payne. He took good care of his nephew Jaxon. Father Thomas Franklin Payne. Siblings Olyn Payne and Jeanette Payne. Special Aunt JoJo (Dale) Grandchamp, Davey Jean Stewart; Cleo MacDonald, Gloria Urbaniak, Susie (Bob) Symington, Faith Tallwhiteman, Margaret Payne; uncles Lowell and Curt Standing; neighbor and adopted grandma, Vera Beauchamp; and numerous cousins, nephews, nieces, and other extended family members.
TJ was preceded in death by his mother Darla, maternal grandparents Joseph and Gladys Jackson; paternal grandparents Layton and Joy Payne; uncle Carl Payne and John Payne; aunt Lynn Campbell, Patricia Stump, Cleo Hamilton; cousins Ryan Payne and Gladys Grandchamp; nieces Jolee Payne and Brianna Payne.
Condolences for the family may be left using the form below.
Caressa lynn Grooms-Weeks says
I am so sorry things happened like this. My heart is so hurt for you and your family. If only…if only…..are my only thoughts. Watch over us and protect us. With this I pray. Amen. We love you..
Robin Schock says
Oh I’m so sad for you Gloria and Cleo and family. I’ll be praying for you on my morning walks.
Roxanne Gourneau says
My condolences to the family in your loss. Prayers and thoughts to the family
Lois Black says
My condolences to you and your family. He was such young man, but very kind when ever he seen me he would say hi cuz how are you doing and a crazy kinda way. Fly high you are one of God’s angels.
Rita Weeks says
My condolences to all of TJ’s family. May God’s gracious blessings be with you all.
Shannon Headdress Gonzalez says
My Son Larry Fisher and I send our sincere condolences to Tj’s Family. I have many happy memories of him and my son playing at the house in the country. God be with you Cousin till we see you again.
Carla Payne says
My dear cousin, I will cherish our childhood memories together and all the times you have helped me out whenever I needed you. I am so saddened you left us too early and we will miss your laughter and sense of humor. You are now our guardian angel. RIP Cousin. I love you
Joan Todd says
I Never Ever Thought A Day Like This Would Come… A Shocker! Condolence To All His Family..You Touched A Lot Of Lives..You Had A Good Heart TJ.. Rest In Paradise TJ..🦅🦋
Clarence Maher says
Sincere condolences to Tom and family
Darlyn Grainger says
Condolences to the families. You are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you all
Gail Green says
Condolences to all of his family. I haven’t been on the river bottom for a long time but you will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Jeremy Wells says
I worked with T.J. in Louisiana. We spent a lot of time together when not working. He was a great guy. One of the hardest working people I have ever met. Always fun to be around, generous, and a great friend. Always ready to lend a hand. We had so many good times together and I was hoping to find reconnect with him when I came across news of his passing. He was a true friend to me and will be sorely missed.