Kirk Butler Payne

Kirk Butler Payne passed away Tuesday, April 23, 2024 in the mountains of Colorado Springs, surrounded by his loving family.

Kirk was born June 15, 1959 in Springer, New Mexico to his parents Bob and Susan. His family later relocated to Bloomfield, New Mexico where he spent his childhood outdoors learning to hunt, fish and ride horses. He graduated from Bloomfield High School in 1977, where he was a member of the rodeo team and became NM State Champion Bareback Rider. He received a rodeo scholarship to Eastern New Mexico University.

He met his wife, Cheryl, at the San Juan County Fair in August of 1975 and they later married in 1978. After settling down in Bloomfield, they welcomed and raised three beautiful daughters, Lacey, Lindy & Sunni.

Kirk was successful in many careers over the years. He started as an auctioneer and worked alongside his dad and brother before starting his own business, Northwest Pawn & Trading, which he owned and operated for over 30 years. In 2008 he went on to pursue his passion for hunting and guiding, opening TimberRidge Adventures. Over the years he guided and outfitted hundreds of sportsmen from all over the world. In 2014 he went to work in the Oilfield, working in both the San Juan and Permian Basins.

Kirk was also a huge part of the San Juan County 4-H and livestock community throughout the years. He was always willing to help anyone who wanted to learn and grow as a showman. He spent many late nights and countless hours in the barn mentoring children from across the country.

His greatest joy in life was spending time with family and friends, laughing and telling stories. He had a heart of gold and was always the first to lend a hand to anyone in need. Kirk will be remembered for his love and generosity to his family, friends and the community and for always being the life of the party. He will be greatly missed.

Kirk was proceeded in death by his nephew Clay Payne, stepmother Karen Payne and father-in-law Jim Bailey.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Cheryl, his daughters Lacey Payne, Lindy Meluso (Devin) and Sunni Bingham (Nate). Grandchildren Gavin, Grayson, Cael, Camdon, Reese, Rhett and Clara. Godson Aric Costa. Parents Bob Payne & Susan Whitaker (Bert), mother-in-law Pat Bailey. Siblings Dana Payne, brother Dal Payne (Debbie), sister-in-law Ronda Bailey. Nephew Cade Payne (Raven), niece Halle Payne.

Kirk’s celebration of life will be at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at McGee Park Convention Center- 17 County Road 5500 Farmington, NM 87401.