Robert L. Payton

Mr. Robert L. “Bob” Payton, 80 of New Concord, KY, passed away Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Jennie Stuart Medical Center in Hopkinsville, KY, surrounded by loving family.

Born October 26, 1945, in Olaton, KY, Bob was the son of the late Archie Payton and Mamie (McDaniel) Payton. He was an avid outdoorsman who held a deep love for the outdoors, finding joy in the thrill of deer season and comfort in the quiet of a long day spent fishing. He was also a devoted NASCAR fan who rarely missed a race and could talk for hours about his favorite drivers. Bob had a gift for storytelling and loved sharing tales from his experiences, always with a spark of humor. He loved his work and retired as a supervisor from United Parcel Service after a long and dedicated career.

Those left to cherish wonderful memories of Bob include his loving wife of 56 years, Nancy K. Payton; his sons Danny Payton of Illinois and Dennis Payton of Kentucky; his daughter, Robin (Payton) Kirkland of New Concord, KY; brothers, Wilbur Payton of Buffalo, IL and Willis Payton of Springfield, IL; sister, Linda Bivin of Illinois; his cherished grandchildren, Monica (Matt) Adams, Danielle (Keith) Tate, Andrew Payton, Justin Payton, Collin (Cheyenne) Kirkland, Madison Kirkland, and Summer Carter; and eight precious great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by a brother, Carmen Payton; a sister, Doris West; a grandson, Cody Kirkland; and two daughters-in-law, Sandra Payton and Laurie Payton.

A funeral service to honor Bob’s life will be held at Brintlinger & Earl Funeral Home in Decatur, IL, on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, with Brian Canaday officiating. The family will receive friends for visitation from 11 am until time of the funeral service at 1 pm. Following the service, Bob will be laid to rest in the Steenbergen Cemetery in Mt. Pulaski, IL.