William Peter James Payne Jan. 2, 2006 - Feb. 23, 2025

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A message from Joe’s family in Canada: Will’s Grandma Adele known as bubby, Auntie Roseanne, Uncle Steve, Cousin Hailey, and Aunty Bev.

We are heartbroken to be sharing these words today in remembrance of our beloved William. Though we cannot be there in person, our hearts are with all of you as we honor his memory. On behalf of Bubbi, Auntie RoseAnn, Uncle Steve, Cousin Hailey, Auntie Bev,  and all of us who loved William dearly, we want to share just a small piece of what made him so special to our family.

From the moment he came into our family, he was the sweetest, most lovable little boy, with a curiosity and brilliance that never faded. His love for cars, sports—especially football—and his endless knowledge of facts made every conversation with him an adventure.

Some of our fondest memories are the summers spent together. Jess, Joey, Will and Oren would visit from England, and our time at the cottage in Thessalon was filled with rock climbing, blueberry picking, and endless hours in the water—where Will always loved showing off his swimming skills. Even after the cottage was gone, our adventures continued at the trailer on St. Joe’s Island, where he embraced everything from boating to jet skiing, making every summer unforgettable.

Will had such a bright future ahead of him. His passion for sports led him to pursue a career as a gym teacher, a path that made our Bubbi especially proud, as she spent her own career in the same field. Though his time was cut far too short, we know he would have been incredible in everything he did—because that’s just who he was.

While we are devastated by this loss, we will always carry his memory with us. We will remember his kindness, his intelligence, his enthusiasm for life, and the joy he brought to our family.

William, we love you, we miss you, and we will hold onto every moment we shared with you.