“If I die on my motorcycle, know I died happy.”
On August 21, 1983, Ricky Gene Payne Jr. made his entrance into this world and 40 years later on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, he made his departure much too soon doing what he loved.
Ricky was a loving father, a beloved son, unforgettable brother, a funny uncle, and a caring human. His tough exterior was often melted away by those he loved, especially his daughters. He was committed to seeing his daughters grow through the years and supporting them in their interests. He grew up preaching the gospel as a young boy and continued his faith as a dedicated member of Bellevue Baptist Church. On game day, you could bet Ricky would have his Big Green Egg fired up, cheering on his Cats or Packers while cooking up some delicious meats. In addition to riding motorcycles with his Dad, he loved exercising, playing golf, driving his truck, and being with family and friends. He was a respected member of management at Glenmore Distillery.
Ricky was preceded in death by his grandparents, Robert Daily Sr., Joan Daily, and Gene Payne; uncles, Steven “Beaver” Daily and Robert Daily Jr.
Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Campbell and Stella Payne; along with their mother, Lauren Payne; parents, Ricky Payne Sr. (Kelly), Sandy Daily of Franklin, Tennessee and John Daugherty; grandparent, Ginny Payne; siblings, Dexter Payne (Tina) and Amanda Phelps (Mark); nieces and nephews, Edele, Lawson, and Gage Payne, and Reagan, Maggie, and Katherine Phelps.
A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, October 2, 2023 at Bellevue Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Owensboro Memorial Gardens. Visitation is from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday at James H. Davis Funeral Home and from 9 a.m. until the time of service on Monday at the church.