Michael Coy Payton

Michael Coy Payton, 82, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at Community Hospital North. He was born on May 29, 1944, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to the late Arlin Coy Payton and Lucy Ann (Atwood) Holt.

Michael graduated from Warren Central High School with the class of 1962. He went on to work as a meat cutter, particularly for Marsh Supermarket, for several years before he retired. In his free time, Michael was known for his selflessness and caring personality, which reflected in his involvement in the Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints Church in Indianapolis, Indiana, where he served as a member. He also sat on the board of zoning appeals for Lawrence, Indiana. Michael was named an honorary police chief and Kentucky Colonel.

When he wasn’t serving his community, you could find Michael indulging in the hobbies he enjoyed the most, which included woodworking and collecting knives. He loved to travel, especially to Dale Hollow Lake, and spend his time outdoors. Often, Michael spent his time with his lifelong best friend, Robert.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Dominga Gomez Payton, whom he married August 20, 2020; two children, Jeff Payton and Julie (Troy) Babcock; stepson, Karlos Aquino Gomez; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; two siblings, Carolyn Sue Miller and Della Dian (David) Canon; as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Michael was preceded in death by his first wife and the mother of his children, Cynthia Payton; and four siblings, Arlin David Payton, Linda (Dan) Bledsoe, Shirley Thompson, and Waymon “Bub” Holt.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Stillinger Family Funeral Home, Hendryx Chapel, 11636 E Washington Street, Cumberland, Indiana 46229. A funeral service will be held the following day, Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home with Bishop Martinez officiating, as well as a eulogy from Michael’s dear friend, Robert Jones, Jr. Burial will follow in Washington Park East Cemetery in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, Maryland 21741. If you would like to sign the online guest book or send condolences to the family, you may do so by visiting www.stillingerfamily.com.