Neil E. Payson, 84, died Dec. 1 at the Maine Veterans Home in Augusta.
He was born Feb. 3, 1930 in Cushing to Warren and Mary (Cameron) Payson. He grew up in Cozy (Cosy) Harbor on Southport Island and graduated from Boothbay Harbor High School. He lived most of his life on Dogfish Head, Southport. He served in the U.S. Army.
He worked at several of the area boat yards as a painter. He built his own skiffs and lobstered. He also worked as a carpenter with Maurice Sherman.
He was a member of the Southport Fire Department and was a 50-year member of Masonic Seaside Lodge #144. He was also a member of the Lions. He was an “elegant” cook, especially with seafood. He was a big-hearted, trustworthy friend. He enjoyed going to Lighthouse Beach on Southport every day that he could year round.
He was predeceased by his parents and by two brothers, Franklin Payson and Norman Payson Sr.
He is survived by many nieces, nephews and grand-nieces and grand-nephews. He was known as “Uncle Neil” to many, whether family or not.
Friends are welcome to join the family for a time of visitation from 10 a.m. to noon with a Masonic service at 11:30 a.m. on Sat., Dec. 13 at Hall’s of Boothbay, 975 Wiscasset Rd. in Boothbay. Burial will follow in the Union Cemetery in Southport.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Neil’s memory to the Southport Fire Department, c/o Town of Southport, Southport, ME 04576.
You can share condolences at www.hallfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Hall’s of Boothbay.
