Timothy Craig “Tim” Payne Sr., 76, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2025, following a long journey with Alzheimer’s disease.

Tim is survived by his son, Timothy “Craig” Payne Jr.; his daughters, Mary Elizabeth Moorer (Bryce) and Salyer Payne; his brothers, John Payne (Kim) and Kevin Payne (Terri) and his sister, Lisa Payne Cook (Bobby); and his grandchildren, Shy’Antra Capers Payne, Timaya Payne Diab (Yaser), and Ayden J. Payne. He is also survived by three great-grandchildren.

Tim was preceded in death by his daughter, Sharon “Shari” Kaple; his parents, Judson and Frances Payne; and his sister, Marsha C. Malone.

Tim was born on August 27, 1949, in Charleston, South Carolina. He attended Hanahan High School, where he excelled in football, baseball, and making lifelong friends. He was named Most Valuable Player in football during his senior year and graduated with the Class of 1967. Tim earned a football scholarship and attended Newberry College before returning to Charleston to complete his undergraduate degree at Baptist College (now Charleston Southern University). He later earned his master’s degree in education from The Citadel.

Tim devoted the majority of his professional career to education in the Berkeley and Dorchester County school districts. The final ten years, and the highlight of his career, were spent as Principal of Fort Dorchester High School. He was proud to work alongside the Patriot family to help establish a strong and respected high school rivalry as the second high school in Dorchester District Two.

In 2007, Tim retired after a distinguished 35-year career. His legacy of educational excellence, dedication, and compassionate leadership will continue to inspire generations to come.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at Cathedral of Praise, 3790 Ashley Phosphate Road, North Charleston, South Carolina, on January 10, 2026. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, followed by the memorial service at 2:00 PM.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and caregivers at Lake Moultrie Nursing Home for their genuine compassion and care, as well as to the wonderful staff of Gentiva Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or to the charity of one’s choice.