Mr. Luther Payton

His Story: Luther Payton was born September 4, 1935 in Webster County, Mississippi to the union of the late John and Bertha Lee Payton. Luther was the eldest of 14 children in which four preceded him in death. Luther attended school in Webster County where he later became the school bus driver. During that time he had his eye on one special passenger Essie Mae. They spent time attending church, hanging with friends, chasing each other and passing licks which we know as "love taps." That was the beginning of a lifetime journey in love. Luther married his sweetheart, Essie Mae Allen affectionately called "Es Mae," on March 7, 1954 and to this union five children were born. Luther migrated to Detroit, Ml in 1956 where he lived with his Uncle Sam and Aunt Earlene Payton. He began working at a car wash, Superior Products Company and the Tunnel to provide for his family. It was during his employment at James D. Evans Plumbing Company he found what would become his passion. Luther started his own plumbing company in 1974. Many friends and family members worked diligently with him to flourish the business. The torch has now been passed on to his youngest brother Billy. Luther became employed as a pipefitter for Chrysler Corporation in 1976 until 1997. After his retirement from Chrysler he resumed plumbing then fully retired in 2007. Luther, affectionately called Mr. Payton, Sweet Lu and Poppa enjoyed homemade biscuits "everyday" for over 50 years, not to mention the black eyed peas made by his wife. In spare time they traveled, played cards and entertained. His home was open to many. Holmur St. will never be the same. Over the years Luther was a member of Prince Hall Masonic Grand Lodge. He also loved fishing, music and most of all his cars, namely the Cadillacs. Luther received Christ and became a member of Greater Love Tabernacle COGIC under the leadership of the late Bishop Clifford C. Dunlap and now Pastor Steven B. Dunlap. He loved singing in the Gospel Choir and enjoyed various activities and events with the Seniors With a Purpose group until his health began to decline. He was the ultimate husband, brother, father, grandfather and friend. One of his biggest highlights yearly was the fun he would have with his siblings during the annual "Payton Family Reunion." There is so much more that can be said about this man who loved unconditional and gave so freely.

Mr. Luther Payton

September 4, 1935 - August 14, 2015