Johnny Payte

John (Johnny) Samuel Payte, 75, of Texarkana, Texas, peacefully walked into the loving arms of Jesus on October 8, 2024, surrounded by family and friends. Born in Mt. Ida, AR, he was the beloved son of Samuel Olen Payte and Willie May Lackey Payte.

Johnny graduated from Caddo Gap High School in 1966 and was later blessed with 41 years of marriage to his beautiful and cherished wife, Gayla (McAlexander) Payte. Their union was one marked for the ages, a testament to enduring love and companionship, with God as their cornerstone. 

He was preceded in death by his parents Olen and Willie Payte and brothers, Richard O. (Sonny) Payte, James Palmer Payte, and little brother Joey Payte. He is survived by his wife, Gayla; sons, John Cody and Sam Furguson; daughter, Tenisha Pace; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; sisters, Eudena McCormick and Naomi Reppo; a very special great-great-niece, Clary Lynn Smith; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. Known to many as “Pianoman”, Dad, Uncle Johnny, Grandpa Payte, and YayYay, he touched countless lives with his love, laughter, and devotion.

Johnny was a devoted servant of the Lord and a dedicated member of Redwater First Baptist Church in Redwater, Texas, where he played the piano for 17 years. He also blessed many with his music during his 10 years with Truth Infusion Ministries. David Markham, leader of Truth Infusion, remarked, “Johnny was a great musician, but more than that, he was a minister. He knew what God had done for him, and he loved seeing that happen in the lives of others.” Not only was Johnny dedicated to serving Jesus, but his love for the outdoors was evident in his passion for hunting and fishing. He was also deeply enthusiastic about both playing and watching basketball.

Our beloved Pianoman will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His ministry of faith, music, and love for the Lord will continue to inspire and uplift those he touched. Johnny’s devotion to his family, his church, and his community leaves a permanent mark on our hearts. Though he has left this earthly life, the melodies he created will live on forever, a testament to a life well-lived in service to his Heavenly Father.

Memorial services will be held on October 17, 2024, at Redwater First Baptist Church, 105 Redwater Blvd, Redwater, TX 75573. Visitation will start at 10:00 AM, followed by the memorial service at 11:00 AM. Officiating the service, three pastors who were instrumental in Johnny’s life: Todd Reed, Corey Callicott, and Mike Powell.

In lieu of flowers, a love offering for the Payte Family would be greatly appreciated to help with any incurring expenses. For more information on how to donate, please contact the Redwater First Baptist Church office at 903-671-2142.