Harold Arnold Payton
Harold Arnold Payton, 71, Columbia City, died Sunday, Jan. 13, 2019, at his home. He had been in declining health.
He was born Aug. 8, 1947, in Auburn, a son of the late Robert Lee and Nellie (Powell) Payton. His formative years were spent in Auburn where he attended Auburn High School. He later earned a GED.
On March 11, 1967, he was united in marriage to Sharon E. Mitchell. They made their home in Fort Wayne. For the past 40 years, they have lived in Columbia City.
He was employed by Essex – Columbia City for over 30 years where he became a supervisor. He completed his work career with Foamex, Auburn.
An avid Pittsburgh Steeler fan, he faithfully watched their games. He also enjoyed watching the Purdue Boilermakers. As a stress reliever, he liked to play golf and participated in a Fort Wayne area golf league.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Sharon; three sons, Brian S. Payton, Columbia City; Matt C. (Kendra) Payton, Fort Wayne; and Anthony T. (Samantha) Payton, Pierceton; six grandchildren, one great-grandchild; a brother, Dave Rhoads and a sister, June (Steve) Casselman, both of Angola.
The funeral service is 10 a.m. Thursday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Burial is at South Park Annex Cemetery. Visitation is 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to the American Cancer Society.