Earl Francis Payne, 89, of Freeport, died Saturday September 27, 2014 at Stephenson Nursing Center. He was borne June 25, 1925 in Fayette, IA, the sone of Fitch and Emma (Martin) Payne. He married Carol Bell September 5, 1943 in Oelwein, IA. Earl worked for Chicago, Great Western,Northwest, and Illinois Central Railroad for forty years; he also owned and operated Nummie Drive Inn in Stockton. He was a member of Faith Center in Rockford and Plum River Masonic Lodge #554. He volunteered for the Stockton Little League and Stockton American Legion; he also volunteered at FHN for 25 years. He enjoyed the Chicago Bears, Cubs and Bulls, gardening, woodworking, and arts and crafts. Earl is survived by his wife, Carol Payne of Freeport; his son, Kris (Debi) Payne of Freeport; two grandchildren, Angela (Scott) Burnop and Seth Allan Payne. He was preceded in death by three broths, Allan, Fitch and Leo; two sisters. Elanore and Betty; and two infant sisters. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, October 1, 2014 at Faith Center 4721 S. Main Street, Rockford, IL. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., with a masonic service at 7 p.m., Tuesday at Burke Tubbs Funeral Home, Freeport, IL. Burial will take place at Oakland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established in his memory. The family would like to thank Oakley Coruts Assisted Living Center, Stephenson Nursing Home, FHN Hospice.