EMMIT "SKIP" PAYTON

Emmit "Skip" Payton, 95, of Isabella, MO passed away on June 22, 2017 at Gainesville Healthcare Center. He was born December 25, 1922 in Puxico, MO, son of Alva and Vera (Stewart) Payton.

Skip was a veteran who proudly served his country during World War II in the United States Army. In WWII, Skip became a decorated soldier as he traveled the length of Italy. Out of the original company Skip was one of the fortunate ten survivors who took the hill and monastery of Monte Cassino.

On May 10, 1952, Skip was united in marriage to Margie Klorer in St Louis, MO. To this union, one daughter, Donna, was born. In later years, Skip enjoyed dancing and taught swing dancing with his wife in St Louis. Another one of his favorite hobbies was singing and playing guitar with local musicians.

Skip loved being in nature. Whether it was turkey hunting, deer hunting, fishing, or enjoying the woods; those closest to him will agree that his energy was inexhaustible. He was well known at the farmer's markets where he sold fruits and vegetables from his garden. He made delicious jellys and pies from fruits he gathered from the wild.
All in all, Skip was a lovable, kind, and good person who lived a full and rewarding life with no regrets.

He is survived by his wife Margie Payton of Isabella, MO; one daughter Payton Rosenstein of New Jersey; one grandson Jason Payton Rosenstein of Brooklyn, NY; and two brothers Jim Payton and Alvin Payton of wife Grace. He was preceded in death by his parents Alva and Vera Payton and five siblings.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 27, 2017 from 5-7 p.m. in the Clinkingbeard Funeral Home chapel, Gainesville, MO. Burial will be Wednesday, June 28, 2017 in the Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St Louis, MO with Full Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Three Rivers Hospice. Arrangements are by Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO.