Rev. Dennis L. Payton
December 8, 1953 ~ July 21, 2023
Rev. Dennis L. Payton, 69, Mooresville, passed away peacefully at his home on July 21, 2023, after a well fought battle with stomach cancer. Dennis was born December 8, 1953, in LaGrange, Kentucky, to the late Rev. L.D. and Dorothy (Shearer) Payton. Dennis married his beloved wife, Tammy, on March 18, 1975, and she survives.
Dennis graduated from Circle High School, Asbury College, and from the United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. He enjoyed a 44-year career as a minister in the United Methodist Church. Dennis served at the Crothersville United Methodist Church and the Cana United Methodist Church in Jackson County, Indiana from 1977-83. From 1983-2005, he served in Loogootee. In 2005, he was transferred to the First United Methodist Church in Mooresville, where he served for 16 years, until his retirement in 2021.
In addition to his love for the church and ministering, Dennis had an incredible affection and appreciation for horses. Dennis spent much time riding horses, breaking horses, and ministering to many friends while on horseback. He loved to spend time with his family and make memories, especially with his grandchildren. Dennis was proud of the three generations of Payton men, including his father, and his two sons, who serve in the United Methodist Church. Dennis’ memory will be cherished by a loving family and many friends.
Survivors include his wife of 48 years, Tammy; sons, Rev. Andrew D. (Leslie) Payton and Rev. Daniel L. (Sarah) Payton; sister, Leslee D. Payton; grandchildren, Jayden, Paige, and Ella Payton; Emily, Carter, and Luke Payton.
Dennis’ Life Celebration® Visitation and Funeral Service will be held at the First United Methodist Church, 900 N. Indianapolis Road, Mooresville. Visitation will be on Thursday, July 27, 2023, 1 to 3 p.m., with the service following at 3 p.m. The service will be officiated by Rev. Dr. Amber Karkosky-Litten and Revs. Andrew and Daniel Payton. Immediately following the service, the family will depart for the burial and committal service that will take place at 5:30 p.m., in Truelove Church Cemetery, Martin County. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church; Envelopes will be available at the service. Carlisle – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the family. Visit www.CarlisleBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.
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We are so sad to hear Rev Dennis has passed away. But we are so very thankful that he was our pastor for 16 years. What wonderful memories of him we have. And the many things he taught us.
We are so sorry for Dennis passing.We didn’t get to really know you and Dennis.But we thought so much of L.D.& Dot.&Leslee .L.D. married our son when they were in Frankfort.We thought they were the best.I went to a children’s Ministry program with Dot l learned a lot from her.Tammy you and your family will be in our prayers.Randy Allen just let us know today.He is a great guy.
Kimi Guest has purchased Peace Lily for Rev. Dennis Payton
Rev. Payton was our minister at Loogootee Methodist Church for many years. We are so sad to hear of his passing. We are praying for Tammy and all children. RIP Rev. Payton.
Am so sorry for your loss. Prayers for your family.
A fond memory of Dennis was the time when my wife and I were in Vincennes and he invited us go horseback riding with him. We ended up spending three hours going up and down the hills. My wife and still discuss that day. I was amazed at the power of the horses as we went up the hills. I got scratched up a bit, but it healed. My prayers are with you, and I offer gratitude to God for him, and for his willingness to share his time and gifts with us.
Our first time job of ministry together was at Loogootee UMC, working with Dennis. We were privileged to stay with you & your family in the parsonage on weekends for awhile, until other arrangements were made. Then we moved to Loogootee. Skip was the youth minister & associate pastor, & I was the music director. We certainly enjoyed our years there! We are so sorry for your loss, & are keeping your family in our prayers!
So very sorry to hear about Dennis. He was a tremendous preacher. I’ll never forget my first horse ride with him and Delbert. I learned a great deal the “hard” way. lol Please be assured you and yours are in our prayers. In Christ, Greg and Carolyn Johnson
I’m so sorry to hear this. May he be welcome in Heaven with open arms.
Sending condolences on Dennis’s passing. Seems he & Pops (and all the critters) will be awaiting your arrival.
Hugs all around. ❤️
Our prayers are with the Payton family at this difficult time. What a wonderful man with a heart to serve others! He made a huge impact on the lives of so many. We are grateful for his love and support when Ben passed on July 21, 2008. I know they have reunited ‘at the party’ praising God, sharing stories and seeing all the beauty that God’s perfect Heaven has in store for all of us. While we all wish for more time in this life, his passing, and Ben’s, is a reminder to all that life is short and precious. Live it with your eyes on Heaven. It’s our real home. May God grant comfort and peace to Tammy and family.
Newburgh Counseling has purchased Angels In the Garden for Rev. Dennis Payton
Dennis was a wonderful pastor that had a special way of reaching all people. He truly cared about everyone and his actions showed it. Dennis baptized my children and was instrumental in helping leading them to Christ. I attended small group with Dennis and Tammy and I have wonderful memories of Sunday meal get togethers. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Dennis is one to remember. Love and prayers to you all,Tammy, Andrew and Dan We have the fondest memories of our time together @ LUMC May he rest in peace. Clarence and Carol
Mickey and I enjoyed getting to know Dennis and his family during the 4 years we lived in Mooresville and attended First UMC. Dennis was an outstanding pastor with a deep love for the people in the churches he served. Our sympathies to all of his family. He touched thousands of people during his ministry and has now entered His eternal home.
Our sincere condolences to Tammy, Andrew, Daniel and the rest of the family. Dennis was instrumental in leading me (JD) into a personal relationship with Jesus. He performed our wedding ceremony and baptized me. We found his style of preaching and teaching, as well as his personality, to be very engaging and welcoming. He has been a positive force for the gospel and helped many understand that no matter what they’ve done in life that God still loves them and desires a personal relationship with each of us. Praying for your comfort in the days ahead.
Rose and I want to express our deepest sympathy to Tammy and the Payton family. As the many tributes state herein, Dennis was devoted to his Lord and Saviour, his family, and the church families that he ministered to. God bless.
Love Chuck & Nancy has purchased Designer’s Choice for Rev. Dennis Payton
So very sorry for your loss. But it is his gain, to be with our Lord. He was a faithful pastor and a good man.
Tammy and family;
I am so very sorry for your loss. May you know God’s strength and comfort in your time of grief. You are in my prayers.
Pastor Andy,
Prayers and blessings to you, Mrs. Payton, and your family!
From the Alexander family and staff.
Andy, Leslie, and girls
So very sorry for your loss
Karla told me that a guy just pulled up in our yard on a motorcycle. So I went out and said hello and asked him if I could help him. He said, “I’m Dennis Payton your new pastor.” That started a great relationship with Tammy and Dennis while we lived in Loogootee. I am glad he didn’t ride one of his horses up to meet us😊
So sorry for the loss of a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. He was truest a blessing.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.