Charles Antwoine Payton, beloved son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend, entered into eternal rest on January 31, 2025. He was born on November 28, 1978, to Charles and Earnestine Payton in Valdosta, Georgia.
Charles accepted Christ and became a devoted member of Payton AME Church, where his faith and steadfast commitment to his spiritual community were an integral part of his life's journey.
Charles distinguished himself as a Rhodes Scholar and an honor graduate of Valdosta High School, Class of 1997, where his passion for baseball and football shone brightly on the field. He was coached in his early years by his father and Chuck Steele. His love for the sport remained a constant source of joy throughout his life.
Following his academic success at Valdosta High, he pursued higher education at Georgia Southern University, Georgia Tech University and Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to personal growth and academic achievement.
Charles was welcomed into heaven by those who went before him: his grandparents, Badger James and Rebecca Payton, Marie Bauknight Bailey, and Alvin Bauknight; his uncle, Alvin Payton Sr.; his aunts, Pauline Payton, Argie Brown, Teresa Payton, Sarah Payton, and Alean Payton; and his godfather, Willie Hubbard.
To forever treasure his beautiful memory are his loving and devoted parents, Charles and Earnestine Payton; his sisters, Rhonda Smith and her husband Terence "Webster" Smith and Carla Payton (his twin) one brother Cedric Bauknight and wife Carla Bauknight; his cherished nephew Michael Wright II; and beloved nieces Micayla and Mikenah Wright; great-nieces Avana and Favour Wright. He is also survived by his uncles, Will Payton, Badger James Payton Jr. (Geraldine), Squire Payton (Karen), John Culbreth(Elaine), Jimmy Bauknight, and Charles Bauknight (Barbara); his aunts Barbara Walsh (Lloyd), Ruth Payton, Sherri Ann Murphy (Walter), Gloria Jean Jones, and Glenda Bauknight. He was blessed with other parents Sam and Queen Robinson, Godmothers Gloria Hubbard and Sherri Ann Murphy, Godbrother James P. Robinson (JP), special aunt Eddie Mae Wiggs, and special caregiver Alma Harris. Special friends Christopher Daniels “Kip” and Marcus Pride.
Charles's infectious humor, warm presence, and genuine spirit touched countless lives and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Celebration of Life for Mr. Charles Antwoine Payton will be held on Saturday, February 8 at 11:00 A. M. at Payton A. M. E. Church. Rev. Timothy White is the pastor, and Rev. Charles P. Bauknight will officiate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery
Bettye Woodson sent Simply Elegant Spathiphyllum for Mr. Charles Antwoine Payton - February 07, 2025
vincent Houston sent Mixed Spray for Mr. Charles Antwoine Payton - February 06, 2025
May the comfort and peace that surpasses all understanding be with you all during this time. So many memories growing up at Payton AME Church and attending school together. "Lil Charles" will be missed!
May God continue to Bless the family.
Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you find comfort in the beautiful memories shared. There are no words to truly ease your pain, but I hope you can find solace knowing that Lil Charles will be remembered fondly and with love. Love, Courtney Williams and Family
May God bring you peace and comfort as you remember your son and the beautiful times you shared. You're in our prayers.
Family...We extend our condolences to each of you. We pray to the God of all comfort on your behalf. We will continue to pray as we are on this journey together. Peace and Blessings. Randall, Tricia and the boys.
Sending heartfelt condolences to Charles and Ernestein Payton Family on the denise of your beloved son, Charles Antoine Payton. Continued prayers of comfort and healing during your time of need. With many blessings and To God Be the Glory.
Sending my condolences to the family. Praying for God's strengthen and May He comfort you today and the days to come. May His peace be with you as you cherish the memories of ( Lil Charles). Lynn Flucas
Our sincere condolences to the family. We pray that the Lord will continue to bless you with his grace and strength in this difficult time
Sending my love and deepest sympathy to family. May you find strength in the love of those around you and peace in the memories you hold close to your heart.
Charles you will always be remembered by your kind and humble spirit continue to Fly High 😇
Sending our sincere condolences to the family.
Condolences to the family. Praying for peace and strength during this difficult time. 🙏🏽🙏🏽
Deepest Sympathy to the Payton Family. Rest In Peace . Valerie Harper
You were a fierce competitor in life and on the field. One of my closest and most respected friends and brothers. Fly high, and watch over us bro. We love you and you will be severely missed. Prayers and condolences to the family.
Prayers for peace and comfort during this time of bereavement. Continued blessings upon the family. With love, Marcus & Almarine Pride.
The Peace of the Lord Strengthen and Comfort you and your entire family during this time of bereavement.
Sending sincere condolences and heartfelt prayers to the Payton family during this time of loss. Kevin & Theresa Tolbert
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.