Patrick Herschel Payton

Patrick Payton, a resident of Claremore, OK, departed this world on January 27, 2024, at the age of 71. He was born on February 5, 1952, in Jay, OK, to the late Edward “Ed” H. Payton and Atha O. (McKinney) Payton. Patrick was a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and was proud of his heritage.

In 1972, he married the love of his life, Teanne (Riley) Payton. Together they spent 20 years creating memories with the loving family they built together.

Patrick worked for his father helping him with the family business, Payton Plumbing, where he eventually became a Journeyman Plumber. Patrick was proud of his plumbing license and to work in the family business. He loved being a plumber and fixing things.

After a lot of family loss and tragedies, Patrick spent many years away from the remaining family. In 2016, Patrick was reunited with his loving family. He worked hard alongside his son, K.J. and his wife Brandi, to build a new life. He lived with them in Owasso until his health improved and eventually moved to Claremore where he lived in the Cherokee Nation Will Rogers Senior Living Complex. He enjoyed living independently alongside his Cherokee brothers and sisters, many of whom were more like family.

Patrick attended Claremore Assembly of God Church when his health allowed. He also enjoyed reading and visiting with family and friends. He loved woodworking, particularly crafting his infamous dream catchers & eagles. Patrick was charming, witty and would gladly give you the shirt off of his back. He also enjoyed spending time with his grandson over the last year and half, which brought him tremendous joy. Patrick taught us the importance of love, the joy found in giving, and remembering that the small things are the big things. Most importantly, Patrick taught us the power that can be found in overcoming much tragedy & loss by leaning into family & your community. His spirit will remain, and his memory will continue to move us all.

Patrick was preceded in passing by his parents, Edward “Ed” H. Payton and Atha O. (McKinney) Payton; his brothers, Kenny Payton & John Payton; his sons, Riley Payton & Jesse Payton; the mother of his children & love of his life, Teanne (Riley) Payton. Those left to share his memory include his sons, K.J. Payton and his wife Brandi of Owasso, OK, and Jakeob Payton; his brother, Mike Wood & his wife Linda of Springfield, MO; cousin, Don Murphy & his wife Shirley of Jay, OK. Grandchildren include Randy Boyd of Quapaw, OK, and Kylen Payton of Owasso, OK. And, several nieces and cousins whom he loved dearly.