Philip Payne

Obituary

Brent Philip "Phil" Payne, 83, passed from this life on September 17, 2025, in Gig Harbor, Washington, following a long illness. He was born on January 27, 1942, in Oakland, California, the eldest son of Brent Wilkes Payne and Dorothy Jean Mullis.

Phil graduated from Montgomery High School in Santa Rosa, California, and went on to serve in the United States Army, working in the Judge Advocate's office at Fort Lewis, Washington. That sense of duty and diligence carried him into a long and dedicated career with the Pacific Bell Telephone Company.

In August 1969, Phil married Sandra "Sandy" Payne (Morgan), the love of his life. Their partnership was at the heart of everything he built and everything he became.

Phil is survived by his son, Brent Philip Payne. He leaves behind a legacy shaped by service, commitment, and love, both for his country and for the family he cherished. Those who knew him will remember a man who showed up fully in every role he held, as a soldier, a professional, a husband, and a father.

A service has been held to honor his life and memory. Phil will be deeply missed.