Virgil Robert Payne

Virgil Robert Payne, devoted pastor, steadfast farmer, and a man of unwavering faith and honor, passed peacefully from this life into the arms of his Savior at Mercy Hospital, surrounded by family. 
A man of rare integrity and gentle strength, Virgil was the fourth of six children born to Charles and Thelma Payne. From his earliest days, Virgil had a love for the land and a heart for people. He would go on to spend his life tending both—with equal parts grit, grace, and great love. Whether he was plowing his beloved fields on his big red tractor or preaching a soul-stirring sermon from the pulpit, Virgil did it all as unto the Lord.
For over 40 years, Pastor Virgil ministered to countless lives, never seeking the spotlight but always seeking to mend broken hearts, lift weary souls, and point others toward the love and redemption he found in Christ. Most recently, he served as the cherished pastor of Eakly Cornerstone Church, preaching and loving on his flock until just weeks before his passing. His ministry was not confined to church walls—it was lived out in quiet visits, warm embraces, wise words, and tireless service to others.
Virgil’s deep and enduring love for his family was the heartbeat of his life. He is survived by his beloved wife and best friend of 56 years, Brenda, of the home in Mountain View. Their love was a reflection of the gospel he preached—sacrificial, steady, and full of grace.
He leaves behind his daughter Beverly Henson and husband James, and granddaughter Breeanna Henson of Oklahoma City; his son Robert Payne and wife Erin, along with their children Braden, MaKenzie, MaKaila, and Zechariah, all of Mountain View. He is also survived by grandchildren Brittany Smith and husband Michael, and great-grandchildren Kayden and Kyler of Velma; Ryann Behrent of Duncan; and Kevin Quirici of Washington, D.C.
He is mourned by his sisters Veda Jean Tate of Oregon, Corine Francis of Claremore, and Barbara Cavett of Colorado, and remembered lovingly by a large family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Virgil was preceded in death by his beloved daughter Crystal Behrent of Lawton; his parents Charles and Thelma Payne; his brother David Payne; his sister Francis Hudgins; and his treasured in-laws Violet and Red Hicks of Texas, along with many other loved ones who have gone on before.
Though his hands were often calloused from work and his boots dusted from the fields, Virgil’s heart was soft toward the things of God. He raised everything from wheat and cotton to chickens, cattle, horses, and hogs—but his greatest harvest was the legacy of love and faith he sowed into the lives of his family and community.
Even in his final days, Virgil could be found doing what he loved most—preaching God’s Word and tending his garden. His life was a testimony to faithfulness, humility, and unconditional love.
Virgil Payne was a man who walked with God and loved without measure. He has now traded his plow for a crown, his red tractor for streets of gold. While we grieve the loss of his earthly presence, we rejoice in the sure and certain hope that he is at peace in the presence of the Lord he served so faithfully.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23)