Ronell Payton

Ronell Payton, son of Ronald Lee and Bessie Payton, was born on March 13, 1962, at Saint James Hospital in Chicago Heights, IL. He was raised in Hammond, IN where he attended public schools and played on Hammond’s little league baseball team. He graduated from Hammond Tech High school.

Ronell worked for the City of Hammond in the park and recreational department, Bar Processing Company, Sharkey Cleaning Services, and several other custodial companies. He joined Mt. Zion Church at a young age and then later in life joined New Community Baptist Church.

Ronell had several nick names: Moose, Brother Block, Brother B, Ron, Paw-pa, and grandpa. He loved watching football, golf, swimming, basketball, the Olympics, going fishing, and playing bingo and the lot-tery. His favorite TV shows; were westerns and any-thing on BET and HGTV.

Ronell enjoyed going to family gatherings, loved to dance and was the life of the party. He was laid back and a soft-spoken person that loved everyone and was loved by all. Ronell was smooth and a kool dude with his classic Kango Hat. His common saying and quotes: “Naw, that ain’t right” and “When I win the lottery, I am going to buy me a farm,” and “Love you!”

Ronell departed this life at home surrounded by his loved ones on March 17th. When he was given approximately six months prognosis, his family attempted to grant just about every wish! He preceded in death by his father; Ronald Lee Payton, grandparents; Clara and James (Sweet Buddy) Alexander, and Clifton and Mary Payton.

Ronell leaves behind a devoted wife, Tanya R Payton; three children Tameka Daniels, Qwintoria (Isaiah Jr) Upshaw, and Lakelia Moore; his lovely mother Bessie Payton; siblings Eugene L. Stanley, Rhonda Payton, Andy Short, David (Rona) Payton, Sonya (Michael) Jackson, Deric Payton; and god-sister LaJean Fant; sister-in-law Mary Reese; grandchildren Jayveon, DaVone, Ashyia, Emya, Carmello, Malaysia, and Qwinton; great grandchildren Bella and DaKobe; a host of nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

A visitation for Ronell will be held Friday, March 24, 2023, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at New Community Baptist Church, 707 169th Street, Hammond, Indiana 46320, followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 AM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.crownhill.org for the Payton family.