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, PO Box 188, Campbellsburg, KY 40011.

We will be having a Celebration of Life for our brother, Bruce Payton, on Friday, March 6 from 3:00 to 8:00 pm, at the Campbellsburg Community Center (8191 Main Street, Campbellsburg, KY 40011). Per Bruce’s request, it will be an open house reception in true Henry County style, so that means bring your favorite side dish. Our Best Restaurant will be  providing entrees, drinks, and desserts. If you have any favorite memories/stories about Bruce, we would love for you to share them with us in person that evening or in writing. We would also love to include more photos of Bruce if you have any could share with us.

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