Celebration of Life graveside services for Chester A. Payne, 74, of Champaign, will be at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2011, at Woodlawn Cemetery, Urbana. Military rites will be accorded by Champaign VFW Post #5520 color guard.

Visitation will be from 7 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2011, at Heath and Vaughn Funeral Home, 201 N. Elm, Champaign.

Mr. Payne passed away at 10:05 p.m., Monday, Aug. 8, 2011, at his home in Champaign.

He was born Feb. 20, 1937, the son of Cassel and Eleanor (Lowe) Payne. He married Patricia Elliott Nov. 28, 1959, at Rock Creek Parish, Washington, D.C. She preceded him in death on Nov. 15, 2010. Also preceding him in death were his parents and a son, David.

Mr. Payne is survived by a daughter, Laura Owens, of Fisher; a son, Gregory Payne, of Champaign, and three grandchildren, Zachary, Ashlee, and Shelbee Owens.

Before his retirement, Mr. Payne was employed by Illinois Bell Telephone Co. in Champaign as a cable splicer. He was a graduate of Champaign Central High School. He was a member of the Baptist faith.

He served his country in the Marine Corps.

His hobbies included making muzzle-loader guns. He was an avid fan of Illini football.

Condolences to the family may be offered online at www.HeathandVaughn.com.