Randall L. Payton

Randall L. Payton, age 52, of New Philadelphia, died unexpectedly Thursday, May 1, 2008, in his home.Born on June 16, 1955, Randy was a son of Lillian Logston Payton and the late Frederick Payton.Randy was a passionate individual who cared a lot for the works that he was involved with and always devoted his efforts over and above the call of duty.For many years he worked effortlessly caring for those who were mentally and physically handicapped. He made sure that those who were able to travel had the opportunity to do so by taking them with him as he ran errands and went out visiting.Randy was compassionate about Harbor House and was an instrumental part of the organization for many years as a board member and volunteer.As an avid reader and writer, Randy spent many hours of his personal time researching topics and writing regular columns for periodicals such as The Informer and Epitome.On June 27, 1981, Randy married his wife of nearly 27 years, the former Mala Lee. The couple was married in Schoenbrunn Park at New Philadelphia by Mala’s Nephew, Ron Lumpcik.Additionally, Randy was an amateur photographer, artist and comic book fanatic. Moreover, he was a fan of the Marvel Comic character, Captain America. He had aspirations of one day writing and illustrating his own comic book. Furthermore, he and Mala could often be found traveling to and attending the performances of local rock bands throughout the area.In addition to his wife, Mala and his mother, Lillian, Randy is survived by a sister, Margaret (Larry) Telfer of Alaska and two brothers, Jerry (Janice) Torok of Texas, Fred (Donita) Payton of Washington.Numerous nieces and nephews complete the family.In addition to his father, Randy was preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law, Glenn and Rena Lee.Friends are invited to visit the funeral home on Sunday, May 4, 2008, from 1:00 PM to 4:00PM in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia. Dr. Fred Wallis will conduct the Payton service on Monday May 5, 2008, at 11:00AM in the funeral home’s chapel. Following the services, the family would like to invite guests to join them for a time of food and fellowship in the Family Life Center of the New Philadelphia Nazarene Church.Those unable to attend may sign the online guest registry located on the funeral home’s website.As Randy was passionate about many endeavors and organizations, the family requests that donations be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.”Peace!”