Windsor, VT- Russell Robert Payson, 73, died unexpectedly Sunday morning, November 17, 2024, in Hartland, VT.

Russ was born June 28, 1951, in Plymouth, VT, a son of Ralph and Myrtle (Haynes) Payson. He grew up in Bridgewater and graduated from Woodstock Union High School in 1969. Russ worked for a time in the Bridgewater Woolen Mill, Quechee Club, and Jim Blake Excavating. He took a position at Leonard Britton Lumber in Woodstock before going to work for Joe Olmsted Log Cabins and later Bomar Corporation in Charlestown, NH. Russ was married to the love of his life, Jane 'Elle' Ketcham on July 1, 1978, in Woodstock, VT. They made their home in Windsor, where they have been since.

Russ was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved to share this time with his son, Rusty. He was a member of three bass tournament fishing teams, Tri Town Hawg Hunters for two years, Southern Vermont Bass for twenty-three years. Most recently Russ and Rusty, with a collaboration of six other anglers, formed Twin State Elite Bass Fishing Team, which has been going strong for the past three years. Russ enjoyed doing anything outdoors and like gold panning in the small streams of Vermont. He also liked to work with his hands and could build anything he put his mind to.

He is predeceased by a brother, Charlie Payson and three sisters, Ruth Payson, Evelyn Payson, and Percilla Payson.

Russ is survived by the love of his life, Elle Payson; their son, Rusty Payson (Nicole), his daughter, Lyla; his daughter, Christina Payson and her two children; a brother, Ralph Payson, Jr.; three sisters, Susan Payson, Vera Payson, and Bessie Payson; and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Russ's life will be announced at a later date. Knight Funeral Home in Windsor has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences can be expressed to Russ's family in an online guestbook at www.knightfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Green Mountain Conservation Camp Endowment Fund, Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, 1 National Life Drive, Davis 2, Montpelier, VT 05620-3702.