Charles Laud Payne age 81 of Metropolis, IL passed away at Massac Memorial Hospital in Metropolis, IL at 3:42 p.m on Thursday, August 6, 2015. On June 9, 1934, Charles was born to Laud and Mary F. (Little) Payne in Piggott, AR, where he was also raised. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2015 in Piggott Cemetery in Piggott, AR, with Hoggard and Sons Funeral Home.Charles married Dana Cox on June 5, 1954. He graduated from the University of Arkansas in Jonesboro and then served his country in the US Army from 1956-1958 as a medical service officer. Mr. Payne worked for Allied for a short time as a chemist, then went back to Arkansas and worked for his family newspaper and printing business. Charles was called back to Allied and eventually worked in production as a foreman until his retirement. He was an active pilot, a past member of the Civil Air Patrol and of the Baptist faith. Charles and his family loved camping and fishing.Charles is survived by his wife of 61 years, Dana; one daughter, Dona Rene Walker and husband Ricky; seven grandchildren, Amber Jeffords, Kelsey Ballard, Kristen Brugger, Blake Wetherington, Jarrett Nunley, Jamison Wilson, and Dana Wilson; six great grandchildren, Emma Brugger, Gavin Brugger, Reed Brugger, Knox Wetherington, Daniel Nunley, and Kate Nunley.He was preceded in death by his parents; and two daughters, Lisa Dotson and Vickie Wetherington.A memorial service will be held at a later date in Metropolis, IL.Aikins-Farmer Funeral Home are in charge of local arrangements.Online condolences may be left at www.aikinsfarmer-millerfh.com.