Robert Gregory Payne

August 15, 1957-January 3, 2026

Robert, affectionately known to many as "Greg", passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026. Born in Newark, NJ and raised in Fanwood, NJ, he most recently resided in Washington, NJ. Greg graduated from Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School in 1975 and had a lot of pride in his hometown and for his high school, especially as a star point guard basketball player for the SPFHS Raiders. Greg attended Southern Illinois University Edwardsville on an athletic scholarship for basketball and earned his bachelor’s degree.

Greg worked with the Newark Police Department for several years, prior to shifting to a career in teaching, and was employed in various schools as a physical education teacher and basketball coach throughout New Jersey and North Carolina before retiring.

Greg was known for his quick humor and was always the life of the party. He had a love for dogs, and many saw him as a “dog whisperer”. He was a devoted New York Knicks and Dallas Cowboys fan and never missed a game. Greg enjoyed playing horseshoes, fishing, and riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle. He had a versatile love for music, and most of all, appreciated spending quality time with family and friends.

Greg was predeceased in death by his parents Shirley Payne and Robert Lee Payne. He is survived by his beloved wife, Ana Duarte-Payne; children, Kayla Payne-Dietrich (Michael), Robert Griffin Payne and Jason Duarte (Cassidy); cherished grandson, Theo Dietrich; and a host of precious relatives and friends.

A memorial gathering will take place on Sunday, January 18th, 2026, from 1:00-4:00pm. There will be a brief service during the memorial at 3:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your local animal shelter or the American Cancer Society: Donate Today | The American Cancer Society