LeLand LeRay Payne
April 7, 1928 – June 4, 2025
Loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, LeLand LeRay Payne, passed away peacefully the morning of June 4, 2025, at Lee Crest in Cardston, Alberta, at the age of 97.
Ray was born on April 7, 1928, in Cardston, Alberta, the eldest of five children born to Horace Devenish Payne and Mabel (West) Payne. He spent his childhood in Mountain View and Hill Spring, raised his family in Calgary and retired in Cardston to enjoy close proximity to the temple. He was predeceased by his parents and all his siblings, except his beloved sister Shirley (Kay Williams).
He was also predeceased by his two dear wives, Marion Marie Bell and Lorna Leavitt Olson, with whom he shared many years of companionship, faith, and family life.
Ray is lovingly remembered by his children: Lexie (Randy Sherwood), Doug (Linda Stewart), Linda (Bill Roy), Don (Linda McAllister), and Laurie (Lee Magness); his 23 grandchildren; and 45 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great pride and joy.
Throughout his life, Ray worked in sales, including local car lots, Sears, and ultimately retiring from The Bay after many years of service. Known for his outgoing and friendly nature, he was well-known in the community and had a gift for connecting with people wherever he went.
A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Ray served faithfully in many callings over the years. He especially loved to sing and was a dedicated member of the Keith Wood’s Calgary Music Men’s choir and his local church choir. He found great joy in gardening and produced many bountiful crops which he generously shared with friends and neighbours. One of his favorite places was serving in the Cardston Alberta Temple, where he spent countless hours in quiet service.
Ray will be remembered for his cheerful personality, love of music, and kindness toward everyone he met. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and friendship.
Friends may meet the family at the Legacy Funeral Home on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 from 9:00 to 10:00 am.
The Graveside Service will follow at the Cardston Cemetery at 10:30 a.m.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.
April 7, 1928 – June 4, 2025
Loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, LeLand LeRay Payne, passed away peacefully the morning of June 4, 2025, at Lee Crest in Cardston, Alberta, at the age of 97.
Ray was born on April 7, 1928, in Cardston, Alberta, the eldest of five children born to Horace Devenish Payne and Mabel (West) Payne. He spent his childhood in Mountain View and Hill Spring, raised his family in Calgary and retired in Cardston to enjoy close proximity to the temple. He was predeceased by his parents and all his siblings, except his beloved sister Shirley (Kay Williams).
He was also predeceased by his two dear wives, Marion Marie Bell and Lorna Leavitt Olson, with whom he shared many years of companionship, faith, and family life.
Ray is lovingly remembered by his children: Lexie (Randy Sherwood), Doug (Linda Stewart), Linda (Bill Roy), Don (Linda McAllister), and Laurie (Lee Magness); his 23 grandchildren; and 45 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great pride and joy.
Throughout his life, Ray worked in sales, including local car lots, Sears, and ultimately retiring from The Bay after many years of service. Known for his outgoing and friendly nature, he was well-known in the community and had a gift for connecting with people wherever he went.
A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Ray served faithfully in many callings over the years. He especially loved to sing and was a dedicated member of the Keith Wood’s Calgary Music Men’s choir and his local church choir. He found great joy in gardening and produced many bountiful crops which he generously shared with friends and neighbours. One of his favorite places was serving in the Cardston Alberta Temple, where he spent countless hours in quiet service.
Ray will be remembered for his cheerful personality, love of music, and kindness toward everyone he met. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and friendship.
Friends may meet the family at the Legacy Funeral Home on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 from 9:00 to 10:00 am.
The Graveside Service will follow at the Cardston Cemetery at 10:30 a.m.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.