W. G. PAYNE DEAD; WEALTHY NEGRO Owned Much Land in Village Succumbs At 70 William Garnett Payne, 70, died last night at his home, Washington avenue, Seaford, after a long illness He had been a patient in Brunswick hospital and returned home several weeks ago, but failed to rally from a heart attack. Mr., Payne was a Negro, the only one of his race in Seaford. He was one of the largest property owners in the village and was the moving figure in many real estate deals. He was in the real estate and insurance business and had his own office at 123 Liberty street, Manhattan, where he continued to go every day until his illness. Descendant of Slaves- Mr. Payne was said to be descended from slaves brought to Long Island by early settlers. He was born in Massapequa on the Floyd-Jones; estate, one of the oldest in Long Island. His parents were Sylvester Payne, who was employed for more than 30 years by the late David Floyd-Jones of Massapequa, and Cornelia Jones Payne, who died 12 years ago. He was educated in the local schools and started early in life to learn the real estate business. When he lived in Massapequa, he was a member of Grace Episcopal church, and he was affiliated with St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal church, Seaford. He was an active supporter of all the church's work and served for many years and at the time of his death on the executive board. One of his hobbies was the beautification of the village which he loved, and he always supported any civic move to that end. He owned a large plot of land on Jackson avenue across the street from the Roman Catholic church of St. William the Abbott, and he planted wide stretches of lawns and landscaped it with shrubbery. This he did to make the surroundings of the church property correspond with the beauty of the landscaping and planting at the church. Gardens A Landmark- He lived in a modest house on Washington avenue. His gardens are landmarks of the village when they are in bloom. In one section of the gardens, he planted alternate rows of flowers and vegetables. Hit flowers took many prizes at local shows and he was generous with them, giving many away. Mr. Payne had many financial interests locally. He belonged to the old Seaford board of trade now out of existence. He was a member of the Seaford chamber of commerce and the Seaford Republican club. He was Seaford chairman for the south side lighting district. He leaves no near relatives.
Contributor:
Joanne Jak