Thomas "Tom" Payne

Thomas (Tom) Kellan Payne Monroe, Utah

Thomas “Tom” Kellan Payne, age 84, passed away on August 22, 2025.

Tom was born at home, 95 East 3rd South in Monroe, to Elwood Thomas Payne and Myrle Hunt Payne on November 9, 1940. In 1959, he married the love of his life, Merrily Brox. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Manti Temple in 1965. Together they built a beautiful life, raising four children—Desirae, Margo, Stacey, and Mark—just a block away at 94 East 2nd South. Once their children were grown, Tom and Merrily moved to Joseph, where they have lived ever since.

In 1962, Tom and his brother Dick purchased Payne’s Hardware on Main Street. Tom ran the store with his brother Harry, while Dick managed his plumbing business. Payne’s Hardware became a cornerstone of the community, not only for the goods it provided but also as a gathering place—its windows often decorated with Homecoming murals and its aisles filled with neighbors catching up on local news.

Later in life, Tom returned to school, earning his degree from Southern Utah University in 1995. He began a second career as a teacher at North Sevier Middle School, where he inspired students until his retirement.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Tom served faithfully in many callings, including as a temple worker in the Manti Temple. He also gave of his time to his community, serving on the Monroe City Council. He was especially proud to be one of the original organizers of Monroe’s July 23rd BBQ, where he prepared the meat for many years, helping create a tradition that brought friends and families together.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Merrily; his brother, Mike; his children: Desirae (Calvin) Callaway, Margo (Bern) Roberts, Stacey (Richard) Sheridan, and Mark (Laurie) Payne; 15 grandchildren; and 32 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Rona Naugle, Evon Payne, Cherril Ogden, Dona Parker, Harry Payne, Dick Payne, and Emelie Christiansen.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 30, 2025, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel, 75 N Center Street, Elsinore, Utah. A viewing will be held from 10:00–11:30 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. Interment will take place at the Monroe City Cemetery.

Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary