Harold Junior Payton, age 82, of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, residing in Buckhannon, WV, departed this life on January 15, 2024 surrounded by loving his family at St. Joseph Hospital in Buckhannon, WV.

Harold was born on May 18, 1941 in Harrisville, WV, the son of the late Howard William Payton and Vera Myrl Elliott Payton McLaughlin. He was a graduate of the former Harrisville High School and West Virginia Business College, Parkersburg, WV. He retired from Dupont Washington Works as an electrician. He was a long-time resident of Williamstown, WV. He was a member of the Pine Lakes Country Club, Myrtle Beach, SC., where he was an avid golfer and an animal lover, especially dogs. Most recently loved were his Dalmatian, Freckles, and his Labradoodle, Wally. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 16 years, Kathryn L Payton, with whom after their retirement moved to SC, where they had built or refurbished six homes. He especially enjoyed his view of the Atlantic Ocean from his driveway; one daughter, Jennie Payton Sherrard (Joseph), Williamstown, WV; two sons, Harold Payton II (Kerry), Athens, OH and Jonathan Payton, Anderson, SC; stepsons, Jon Hicks (Virginia), Buckhannon, WV, Steven Hicks (Robin), Clarksburg, WV and Scott Hicks (Suzette) of Mason County, WV; seven grandchildren and eight step grandchildren; one great-grandchild and one step grandchild; one brother, Paul Payton (Carolyn), Boaz, WV; cousin, Roy Payton, Lake Hartwell, SC and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a great-grandson.

Following his wishes, he will be cremated with a private memorial service to be held at a later date.

Online condolences may be expressed to www.mculloughraiguelfunerhome.com

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