Donnie Tyrone Payton, Age 61, Transitioned From This Life On April 10, 2026: Obituary

In Loving Memory
Donnie Tyrone Payton
January 24, 1965 – April 10, 2026

Donnie Tyrone Payton, age 61, transitioned from this life on April 10, 2026,

Donnie Tyrone Payton, age 61, transitioned from this life on April 10, 2026, in Laurel, Mississippi, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 24, 1965, in Beloit, Wisconsin, to Lucille (née Sherrod) Sutton and Willie Payton.

In the early 1990s, Donnie relocated to Leakesville, Mississippi, where he built meaningful relationships and became affectionately known as “Donnieman” by his Mississippi friends and family—a name that reflected both his presence and the connection he shared with those around him.

Donnie spent part of his formative years in Illinois, where he attended Fairmont School in Lockport and later Lockport Township High School. Throughout his life, he was known for his strength and resilience.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved mother, Lucille Sutton; his children and extended family including Latisha Crosby, Bruno Crosby, Kizzy (Michael Windborn) Newell, David Newell, Donielle Evan, and their mother, Maple Garcia; and a host of siblings: Shirley (Charles) Miggin of Canton, Mississippi; Tonelle Robinson of Joliet, Illinois; Anthony Payton of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Meton Crawford and Milton Crawford of Beloit, Wisconsin; and Otha (Beverly) Sutton and Steve Sutton of Joliet, Illinois. He also leaves behind 26 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

Donnie shared a special bond with his dear Aunt Laura Foster and cherished cousins, James and Rita Spencer, Mae Catherine Sutton, Greg Foster. His legacy continues through his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended loved ones who will forever hold his memory close.

He was preceded in death by his father, Willie Payton; his stepfather, Otha Sutton Sr.; his sisters, Patricia Ann Payton, Sheila Coleman, and Helen Crawford; his maternal grandparents, Rev. Reuben and Amy Sherrod; and his paternal grandparents, John and Birdie (Crosby) Payton.

Donnie will be remembered for his enduring presence, his love for family, and the impact he made on those who knew him. His life, though no longer physically present, leaves a lasting imprint of love, connection, and remembrance.

Memorial Service

Saturday, May 9, 2026

11am until 1pm

New Covenant Worship Center

2423 Glenwood Ave Joliet, IL. 60435

Apostle Jonas Jones, Pastor