Richard Thomas Payne

Richard Thomas Payne, 35, of Danville, VA, passed away on February 19, 2026, at Sovah Health, Danville, after a brief illness. Richard was born July 2, 1990, to Richard S. Payne and the late Linda S. Ayers.

Richard is survived by his father, Richard “Ricky” S. Payne; his wife, Jessica Dix Payne; a son, Alexander Thomas Payne, and daughters, Hayley, Natalie, Ashlyn and Madison, and a brother, Douglas Fricher.

Richard worked for McDonald’s for 19 years and was known as T. Payne. He graduated from Tunstall High School in 2008 and attended DCC for two years.

He liked to play golf as well as basketball and football, but most of all, he loved spending time with his entire family.

The family will receive visits at the home of his father, 679 Sydenham St. Danville, VA. A memorial service to honor Richard’s life will be held at the West End Chapel of Norris Funeral Services, 511 Church Ave., Danville, on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., officiated by his good friend Dave Hoskins.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that donations be made to the Ronald McDonald Foundation, Ronald McDonald House Global, 26345 Network Place, Chicago, IL 60673-1263.