Philip (Phil) Terrance Payne, Sr.

Philip Terrance Payne, Sr., of Middletown, N.Y., passed away unexpectedly after a short illness at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital in Far Rockaway, N.Y., on March 28, 2026. He was 68 years old. Son of the late Gertrude (Kyles) and Franklin Delano Payne, he was born in Tuxedo, N.Y., on August 20, 1957.

Phil fought a hard battle and was making progress, fueled by the strength and trademark stubbornness that defined him. While he fought with everything he had, in the end, his best part—his heart—simply gave out. He leaves behind a legacy of love that will never be forgotten by his family and friends.

A retired electrician for Cedar Electrical in Slate Hill, N.Y., and a retired maintenance technician for Bruedan Corp in Chester, N.Y., Phil was a man who found contentment in a simple life. He had a natural knack for being able to fix anything, a skill he used often to help those around him. This talent extended to his personal passions; he had a deep appreciation for antiques and often had a collection of various old cars and trucks. He was also an avid collector of stamps and coins, finding joy in the history of his finds.

Though an injury in his younger years created lifelong obstacles that often kept him from working or thriving as he wished, he possessed a selfless spirit that never wavered. Phil always made sure that his wife and son had what they needed and wanted, even if it meant parting with his own cherished belongings to make it happen. His heart belonged entirely to his family; he was the kind of man who would truly give the shirt off his back to anyone in need, consistently placing the well-being of those he loved far above his own.

Though life brought many challenges, Phil found his greatest strength and purpose in his family. He and the love of his life, Darlene, began their journey together decades ago, welcoming their son, Philip, Jr., in 1978. On Phil’s birthday, August 20, 1988, they officially wed, forever intertwining his own birth with the anniversary of their life together.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Darlene, of West Haverstraw, N.Y.; and his son, Philip (Phil) Payne, Jr. and his wife Nino of Middletown, N.Y. He is also survived by his family in West Virginia: his stepmother, Virginia (Betty) Payne-Arnold, and his siblings, Derrick Payne, Robert Payne, Michelle Payne, Bobbie Payne, and Chrissy Payne, as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Phil was predeceased by his brothers Stephen Conklin, Michael Conklin, and Franklin Delano Payne, Jr., and his sister Darlene Payne.

Being “Grandpa” was the most important thing to him. Phil leaves behind a legacy in his two beloved granddaughters, Natalie and Sophia, who were truly the light of his life. He was known to take the last dollar in his pocket just to put it in their piggy banks, ensuring they always felt cared for. Whether hanging up the phone or saying goodbye after a visit, he always made sure his final words were his signature promises: “Grandpa loves you,” and “Love you with all my heart and soul.”

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026, from 5-8 p.m. at Smith, Seaman & Quackenbush Funeral Home, 117 Maple Avenue, Monroe, NY. Funeral Service will begin at 7:45 p.m.

Cremation by Cedar Hill Crematory, Middle Hope, N.Y.

Memorial contributions honoring Philip may be made to: Alzheimer’s Association www.ALZ.org/alzheimers-dementia

Arrangements made by Smith, Seaman & Quackenbush, Inc., (845) 782-8185 www.SSQFuneralHome.com