Payson was born in Portland, Maine in 1935, a son of Elliott and Evelyn (Ross) Perkins. He was raised by his Grandma Ross, after losing his mother at a very young age.
Payson graduated from Hebron Academy and went on to Bowdoin College where he graduated in 1957.
He started his career with Mobil Oil Corp in sales management before purchasing his own company, ER Warren, in 1970. After 22 years as President and owner decided to retire to boating and fishing, he thought.
Payson spent his retirement years, first, as the Board of Trustees at Hebron Academy in Hebron, Maine from 1979 to 1995. He was Chairman of the Board from 1991 to 1995 where upon retirement was named by the Board, as Distinguished Trustee Emeritus.
From 1980 to 1986 he was on the Board of Overseers at Bowdoin College. At that same time he was on the Board of Trustees at Kennebunk Savings Bank.
He was President of the Maine Oil Dealers from 1976 to 1978
He served as President of the Kennebunk Rotary Club from 1980 to 1981
Married his wife Toni in 1996.
Payson is predeceased by his brother Peter.
Payson is survived by his wife Toni, his three children, by a previous marriage, Sally Perkins, Margaret (Peggy) Perkins and Stephen Perkins. His stepchildren, Mathew and Nicole. He had a special love for his five grandchildren, his niece, Christina and his nephew, Douglas and their families.
A time of visitation for will be held from 2-4 pm on Sunday, December 9, 2018, at Jones, Rich & Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St., Portland, ME.
At 3 pm, friends and relatives will be invited to share memories of Payson.
In lieu of flowers, please send any contributions to Hebron Academy, Hebron ME.