Francis M. Payne III (aka “Mike”, “Big Mike”, “Mike Sr”), who founded Payne & Payne Builders in 1993 alongside his brother, Dave, passed away on the morning of 12-25-24. He leaves behind his wife of 28 years, Annie, four sons, Mike (Gina), Eric (Lia), Dave (Sarah), and Brian (Sarah), 9 grandchildren, four siblings, Pat, Colleen, Chris, and Dave, as well as many other extended family members.
His passing on Christmas Day is symbolic in many ways. His favorite holiday, Christmas is where we celebrate faith, family, and generosity/ giving. Our father celebrated these things every day of his life, and left his unique touch on so many people with his quiet actions, thoughtfulness, respect, and kindness.
After attending college at Bowling Green University, Cuyahoga Community College, and Ohio State, he became a tradesman, remodeler, and ultimately entered the homebuilding industry. He quickly grew through the ranks at Ryan Homes, experiencing nearly all aspects of the profession before becoming a principle at Williamsburg Homes in Chardon in 1980. In 1993, he left Williamsburg to start Payne & Payne Builders (The “Payne & Payne” was in honor of his fathers law practice, named the same).
On a personal level, our father was a man of faith, high morals, genuineness, and sense of humor. On a professional level, he was hyper-focused, ultra-organized, and had an uncanny ability to keep things black and white. All of these qualities helped him to quickly establish Payne & Payne as one of the best brands in custom homebuilding, and instilled a special culture in Payne & Payne that endures today despite his retirement in 2007.
“Build it like it’s your own”, “When in doubt, do it right”, “Take responsibility and action”, “Take care of others, and they will take care of you” were just a few of the phrases he often used to guide us and our team. They became the roots of Payne & Payne’s culture, and the foundation that has enabled the company to continue to thrive for over 30 years. Through his guidance, the Payne & Payne “family” of teammates and associates continues to grow, with many of these relationships spanning decades and generationally.
Our father used his knowledge and experience to support the homebuilding industry locally at the HBA of Greater Cleveland, at the state level- Ohio Home Builders Association (OHBA), and on national level via the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and Builders 20 Clubs. His industry peers looked to him as a leader and mentor, enabling him to affect our industry and inspire other builders.
While his professional achievements are immense, his primary focus in life was his love for his family and friends (who were extended family to him) and a sense for adventure and travel. His love for life and genuine care for the people around him was magnetic, and he left a special touch on so many people as a result. Many of our friends looked to him like a father.
Over the past few months, his faith and confidence in God never faltered. He knew his final journey was coming and he didn’t waste a minute of the time he had left- traveling, visiting family and friends, playing golf, and doing everything he loved in life. He never complained or felt sorry for himself. He accepted his circumstances, was thankful for a fulfilled life, and seemed to anticipate “going home” like he did any other adventure in his life.
We are all blessed to have had him as a father, friend, and mentor.
Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Mike at THE DeJOHN FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATIONS CENTER OF CHESTERLAND 12811 CHILLICOTHE ROAD (Rt. 306, just south of Mayfield Rd.) SUNDAY, JANUARY 5, 2025 2-5PM. Mass of Christian Burial Monday, January 6, 2025 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 401 North Street, Chardon, OH at 11AM.
Warm Regards,
The Paynes
Payne & Payne
Builders, Inc.
10750 Mayfield Rd.
Chardon, Oh 44024
440-286-9758 – Phone
440-286-6632 – Fax
info@payne-payne.com
www.payne-payne.com
Copyright 2025. All rights reserved.
In loving memory
Francis Michael Payne III
“Mike”, “Big Mike”, “Mike Sr”
3/19/49-12/25/24