Theodore L. Payne

Theodore L. Payne, SCPO (Ret.) age 81, of Marshalltown, Iowa passed away on Monday, November 10, 2025 at the Iowa Veterans Home.

Per Ted and his family’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. A family-led memorial service will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Sunday, November 23, 2025 at the Iowa Veterans Home Chapel. Memorials may be directed to the family for a later designation. For more information or to send a condolence, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234. Mitchell Family Funeral Home is caring for Ted and his family.

Theodore was born on July 18, 1944 in Burlington, Iowa. He was the son of Clifford and Elva Mae (Yargus) Payne. Theodore enlisted in the military at the young age of 17. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 26 years. Ted was very proud of his military service, during which he was deployed five times in the Vietnam war, and also received two Vietnam service metals. Theodore had the opportunity to travel and live in various places, including Galway, NY, Martin, TN, and eventually lived at the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown for a total of 16 years.

In his free time Ted enjoyed wood working, hunting, camping, fishing, and going to the casino. He was known as a very religious man who loved to study his bible on a daily basis. During his time at the veteran’s home, he could often be seen feeding the birds, the squirrels and maybe even enjoying a vanilla ice cream with Snickers topping. Ted knew no stranger. He greeted everyone warmly by name at the IVH.

Ted is survived by his children: Richard Payne of Galesburg, IL., Kelly (Edward) Stewart, also of Galesburg, IL., Rebecca (Thomas) Lehnerz of Melbourne, FL., Dan (Laura) Bogel of New York, Luana (Steve) Barhydt also of New York, Allison (Rob) Barr of Bristol, Rhode Island, and Brady (Michelle) Mayer of Georgia; his grandchildren: Eric (Briana) Evans, Erin Evans, Alexis Pruett, and Zachary Lehnerz; his sister Patricia Feddersen of Greeley, CO; his niece Heidi; great-niece Stormi; and great-nephews, Dagen Davidson and Garrett Davidson.

He is preceded in death by his parents Clifford and Elva; his sister Doris Walker; his brother Bill Payne; and his son Edward Payne.