Ted Payne

Ted W. Payne of Niles, Michigan, passed away on October 15, 2026 in Mishawaka, Indiana at the age of 69 after a lifetime spent fixing, inventing, and finding joy in the little things.

Ted was a true craftsman and was rarely seen without a hammer and saw. He possessed a rare, brilliant talent for drafting up flawless blueprints, and executing stunning home remodeling projects. He would turn rough ideas into beautiful realities, not only for his home, but for family members too. To Ted, a blank sheet of paper was the start of an adventure, if it didn’t exist yet, he was about to draw it up.

Ted was a master “tinker” and nothing was ever truly broken, it was just an unfinished project waiting for the right tool and some patience. Whether it was fixing a car that wouldn’t start or bringing a lawn mower back to life, Ted always had a solution. He was also a passionate artist who loved drawing cartoon characters and could fill countless sketchbooks. He took great pride in his work and the joy it brought to others.

Ted is survived by his daughter, Brittany York; his grandchildren, Hudson Voreis and Mckinsey York; his sister, Sandra Parris; his nieces, Amanda Ford, Steffany Parris, Sally Berno, Shelley DeHart; his great-niece, Bridgit; his nephew, Boyd DeHart, and his sister-in-law, Maggie DeHart. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Payne and Billie Williams, and his brothers, Gary Payne and Butch DeHart. 

Per Ted’s wishes there will be no services or visitation.

Though the tape measure has been put away, the structures Ted built remain an enduring blueprint for a life well lived.

To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit mcgannhay.com