Laurence Jerome Payne's Obituary
Laurence J. Payne '73, a distinguished advocate for social justice, education, and community service, expired on Sunday, November 26, 2023, following a brave battle with Colon Cancer and a rare heart condition – Cardiac Amyloidosis. A beloved figure in Greater Houston, Larry was a passionate servant leader who dedicated 49 years to public service, education, not-for-profit, and religious leadership.
Larry was born in Orange, Texas, and his academic journey led him to the University of St. Thomas, where he earned a bachelor's degree in theology. He furthered his studies at Seabury-Western Theological Seminary in Evanston, Ill, before serving the Catholic Church in lay positions. Larry made history as the first African American lay vicar in any Roman Catholic church in the U.S.
Throughout his career, Larry held influential positions, including President and CEO of Houston Habitat for Humanity, where he tripled home production and secured an endowment from Oprah Winfrey for the Angel Lane Subdivision, providing homes for Katrina families. His impact extended to the 18th and 25th Congressional Districts, where he served as District Director for Congressman Mickey Leland and Congressman Chris Bell, respectively.
Recognized for his transformative leadership, Larry received numerous awards, including the Knights of St. Peter Claver Justice Award, the Center for Houston's Future 2017 IMPACT Award, and the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for his lifelong commitment to volunteer service in 2021. His dedication to UST was acknowledged with the Vincent J. Guinan, CSB, Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2007, the inaugural Laurence J. "Larry" Payne Servant Leadership Award in 2021 and the James Byrd, Jr. Change Makers Award from the Coalition Against Hate 2023.
Larry leaves a legacy of goodness, discipline, knowledge, and community service. His impact on education, social justice, and community development will be remembered fondly. Larry is survived by his loving wife Regina, ; his devoted brother, Melvin Payne (Beverly); his aunts, Alma Collins Thibodeaux (Orange, TX), Ann Collins (Orinda, CA), Adelene Roy and Pauline Butler Drake; nieces and nephews, Hazel Williams, Jordan Roberson, William Goodson and Harold C. Goodson; sister-in-law, Barbara Goodson (Wildomar, CA); God Daughters, Dominique Guillory (New York City), and Ava Rae Sherrod (Waldorf, MD) - and his active involvement in St. Theresa Catholic Church. May he rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire future generations.
Should friends desire to make a Memorial Gift, Remembering Larry,
they may be sent to the following:
University of St. Thomas – Office of the President, Cindy Viaud
3800 Montrose Boulevard – Houston, Texas 77006
Interfaith Ministries of Greater Houston – Chief Development Officer, Maria F. Magee
3303 Main Street – Houston, Texas 77002
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