Bruce Edward Payton

Bruce Edward Payton, age 65, of Campbellsburg, passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026. He was the son of the late Woodrow and Harriett Payton.

Bruce was a carpenter by trade, but his passion was hunting and fishing. Nothing made him happier than a big mess of fish that he could fry up and share with his friends and family. Bruce was blessed with a wide and varied circle of friends, many of whom he loved like family. He loved ginseng and mushroom hunting, and somehow he always seemed to know where they were hiding. He knew the woods like the back of his hand and he loved walking the hills no matter the season. He understood and respected nature –all aspects of it, from the flowers and trees to the animals that roamed those hills and he loved to share that knowledge with anyone that would listen!

As much as Bruce loved the land, he loved his daughter, Abby, even more. His little girl ever she'll be.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow and Harriett Payton and his brother-in-law, Steve Lesmeister.

He is survived by his daughter, Abigail Payton; sister Peggy Reeves of Louisville; brother Mike Payton of Campbellsburg; sister Kathy Lesmeister of Louisville and sister Lisa (Chris) Carper of Owensboro. Several nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions may be given to Hopewell Baptist Church. 

In lieu of a funeral, a celebration of life will be held, the date and location of which has not yet been determined.