of Greenbrier, AR
December 4, 1938 - August 17, 2026
Ira Vernon Payne was born on December 4, 1938, in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico to Ira and Marjorie Payne. He passed away on February 17, 2026. At a very young age, the family moved to Fairbanks, Alaska where Ira was raised and had many adventures. Around the age of 19, Ira's father sent him, his mother, and younger brothers to Arkansas to purchase a farm where his dad planned to retire.
The family returned to Alaska, but Ira stayed. Ira Married Artie Lee McNew and together they raised a daughter Mitzi. After Artie Lee's passing and Mitzi's marriage, Ira met and married Mavis Odom, and they spent 43 happy years together. Ira was a man of many talents: he loved farming and ranching; heating, air conditioning, and plumbing; and he was a gifted sheet metal worker. He started his own sheet metal, heating air and plumbing business in 1986.
On a brief trip to Alaska in 1991, Ira was bitten by the flying bug. In no time he became a licensed pilot and bought a plane, then built u hangar and landing strip on his farm. One of the highlights of Ira's life came shortly after retirement when he and his best friend flew Ira's plane to Alaska and spent weeks enjoying friends and nature. He also enjoyed boating on Greer's Ferry Lake with his lake friends.
Ira became a Mason in 1991 and quickly rose to the rank of Master Mason, a Scottish Rite Mason, and then Worshipful Master of Holland Lodge 158. Ira and Mavis became active in the Order of Easter Star where Ira became Worthy Grand Patron in 2005. In addition, Ira was instrumental in setting up the Eastern Star Service Dog Program. Ira enjoyed an active life fully appreciating God's gifts and his many friends.
In lieu of flowers, Ira would certainly appreciate donations to the Easter Star Service Dog Program.
Ira was predeceased by his father Ira Payne, his mother Marjorie Payne Kivichen, and his first wife Artie Lee Payne. He is survived by his wife Mavis Payne, daughter Mitzi Hardy, grandsons Brian and Benjamin Hardy, and 4 great-grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will be held on February 28 at 10:00 am in Ira's hangar; all who knew Ira are welcome.