Ralph M Payton

Ralph Monroe Payton was born on July 13, 1924 in Plattsmouth, Nebraska to Willard and Effie (Fullerton) Payton. He passed away on Wednesday, August 15, 2012 at the Grand Island Veterans Home in Grand Island, Nebraska at the age of 88 years, 1 month and 2 days. Ralph was raised in Plattsmouth where he graduated from Plattsmouth High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army serving during World War II as a military police officer. His military career took him to both Germany and Austria. He was united in marriage to Miriam E. Haswell on January 4, 1947 in Hiawatha, Kansas and together they raised two children Jeri and Penney. Ralph worked for Lyman Ritchey Sand & Gravel Company for 40 years as a diesel mechanic. Aside from working, he was a member of Pilgrim Lutheran Church, the Plattsmouth Eagles and Lepert-Wolever Post 2543 V.F.W. He enjoyed working with cars and working in his yard. He always had a big smile and soft heart. He is survived by his children: Jeri Thiede and husband Gary of Grand Island, NE; Penney Jackson of Bellevue, NE 7 Grandchildren 11 Great Grandchildren; 1 Great great Grandchild, Brother: Harold Payton and wife Marge of Plattsmouth, NE. Also survived by many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife: Miriam Payton; sisters: Hazel Banks & Mildred Conley; brother: Charles Payton. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, August 21, 2012 at 11:00 A.M. at the Avoca Cemetery in Avoca, Ne with Pastor Dan Nietfeld officiating. Visitation will be on Monday, August 20, 2012 from 1:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M. with family greeting friends from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at the Funeral Home. Memorials may be directed to Pilgrim Lutheran Church or Alzheimer’s Association. Brian P. Harvey Funeral Home, Plattsmouth, NE 402-296-4445