William Franklin Payne (Brother) passed away on Friday, November 24, 2017, one day following his 95th Birthday. Brother Payne was the eldest son of the late Will and Minnie Payne. He was preceded in death by his wife Daisy Belle Henderson Payne, four sisters, and two brothers. Brother Payne is survived by three children, Barbara Jean Payne, Gwendolyn Payne Briscoe (Bobby) both of Asheville, NC and William A. Payne (Vanessa) of Greenville, SC, four grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, along with special cousin, Samuel Abdul Allah. A lifelong resident of Asheville, NC, Brother Payne attended public schools before enlisting in the United States Army in 1942 where he was member of the 7th Calvary, which was one of the few black Brigades that saw combat in Germany during WWII. While serving in the United States Army, Brother Payne completed several tours of duty, both abroad and in the United States. During his enlistment, he served as a combat engineer and sharp shooter. Also, while serving in the Army, Brother Payne received training to become a carpenter. Brother Payne was an avid gun collector and his collection included an array of small pistols, rifles and shotguns. He was a skilled hunter and craftsman. He was a master carpenter and natural outdoorsman, which only enhanced his hunting and carpentry skills. Following his service in the United States Army, he acquired a position with Asheville Steel and Salvage, where he was employed until his retirement after 40 years of service. Services will be held at Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery  on Friday at noon on December 1, 2017.

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