Gregory Adam Payne, 22 years old, a loving son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and grandson sadly left our world on July 30, 2024.

Gregory was a gentle soul with an amazing and thoughtful mind. He had warm, kind eyes and a laugh and a smile anyone who knew him will never forget. Gregory was mostly introverted but had a fun, playful side when he was with family and especially around his seven-month-old niece, Adelyne. Gregory lit up at the sight of Adelyne and took every opportunity to spend time with her.

The simplest pleasures in life brought joy to Gregory. His favorite thing to do was hike in the Foothills. It was there that he felt closest to nature, freedom and peace. Gregory also loved books. He was a collector of the classics and would read mostly non-fiction, often at the UNM library. Gregory was a skilled piano and guitar player, loved to play chess, ski, play football and loved anything having to do with the ocean. Most recently, Gregory found a passion for cooking.

Gregory's memory will remain in the hearts of his family, friends and those who were honored to have had the privilege of knowing him.

Gregory is survived by his dad, Gregory Alan Payne; his mom, Selia Velasquez and husband Marco Velasquez; his sister, Madison Grace Payne; his brother, Jameson Michael Payne; his niece, Adelyne Victoria Peltz; his nana, Lorraine Cervantes; his grandfather and grandmother, Warren and Kathryn Payne; his godmother, Yvonne Vega; his godfather, Ernest Cervantes; his Auntie, Antoinette and Michael Maestas; his Auntie, Felicia Cervantes; his uncle, Anthony Cervantes; and many other cousins, nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.

Services for Gregory will be held on Wednesday, August 14th at 9:00 AM at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church located at 820 Broadway Blvd. SE Albuquerque, NM 87102. Reception and memorial will follow immediately after the services at the reception hall behind the church.

"Now you belong to heaven, and the stars spell out your name."