On March 24, 1939, God blessed Ulysses and Hazel Joe Payton with a gift, Ellis Casey Payton. Ellis, along with his brothers and sisters, made life in Galveston, TX one of strong beginnings. At 8 years of age, Ellis accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior, validating that commitment through baptism along with his sister, Pearle. In the years that followed, as Ellis evolved into a young man, his step-father, Steve Sanders (Papa Jack), was instrumental in inspiring Ellis to live a life that others would strive to emulate.
At the age of 18, while residing in Los Angeles, CA, Ellis decided to serve his country by entering into the United States Army as a Combat Medic. His journey as a soldier can best be described above and beyond the definition of a hero. He served two tours in Vietnam, one tour in Korea and four tours in Germany. His heroism and dedication to his country led to remarkable achievements. Ellis was awarded the Bronze Star Medal of Valor with Device, the fourth highest military decoration for valor in the United States. In addition, he was also awarded the Combat Medical Badge, Bronze Star Medal w/OLC, Good Conduct Medal 5 Awards, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Gallantry Cross w/Palm, Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal and the Army Commendation Medal w/OLC. In August,1979, he retired from the military as a Sergeant First Class with 20 years.
On September 15, 1959, he became one with the love of his life. Erika Liselotte Heimbach. Their love story continued relentlessly for 65 years. Together, they were often seen dressed to the nines in coordinating outfits, showing up for their family and close friends, toasting to many special occasions, and traveling the world.
On July 25, 2024, in the midst of warm hearts and love, Ellis peacefully transitioned from this life. Loved beyond measure, he leaves to cherish his memory: A loving and devoted wife, Erika, One daughter, Diana Rogers (William Perry Rogers), One Granddaughter, Tiffany Whitlow (Louis Dewayne Whitlow), Three Great-Grandsons, Edward David Faulk IV, Ace Whitlow, and Lamir Whitlow, and a multitude of siblings, nieces, nephews, other relatives and special friends.
Ellis “Doc” Payton’s life represents a unique mosaic of bonds that brought people from all facets together. His heart for others and love for life itself made any and all who were blessed to know him, witness his calm, witty and wise demeanor encounter an experience never to be forgotten. He never met a stranger and greeted everyone he knew and loved with a warm hug, kiss on the cheek, and an “I love you”. He paved a way for many by the way he lived, served his country, embraced his family, fought the good fight and by the way he LOVED. He was truly the epitome of both a man and a legend.
Memorial service will be 1:00 p.m., Friday, August 2, 2024 at the Royal Chapel of Memories (4315 Oakwood Avenue NW Huntsville, AL 35810) with Reverend Chanda Crutcher officiating.
There will be no public viewing.
