Paul Payne

HIS STORY ~ THE MAKING OF A LEGEND 

To know Paul was to know a man of deep loyalty, incredible warmth, and a laugh that could light up any room. affectionately known as Boobie, Paul was a proud Cleveland Heights native, growing up in the Hts community and building bonds that truly lasted a lifetime. He was the kind of person who stayed connected to his roots, from his school days at Noble elementary all the way through his time at Cuyahoga Community College. 

More than anything, Paul was about family and brotherhood. He shared a bond with his friends that spanned over 40 years; the kind of rare, irreplaceable brotherhood where you share moms, houses, and everyday life until you're essentially family. He was the anchor to so many of our lives, the person who always had your back, and a constant source of guidance and realness. 

Paul leaves behind a beautiful legacy. He is preceded in death by his biggest fan, his mom, Barbara Ellis-Payne. He is survived by his dad Paul Ellis, beloved son, Pierre, who was his absolute pride and joy, his devoted older sister, Lucretia, his brother's Chris, Kenny, Anthony, and baby sister Niyah. He also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews who looked up to him immensely, seeing him not just as an uncle, but as a role model and a pillar of strength. 

As we navigate this unimaginable loss, we want to surround Pierre, Lucretia and the entire family with the same fierce love and support that Paul gave to all of us throughout his 48 years of life. Thank you for loving Paul, for sharing your memories of him, and for helping us honor a truly irreplaceable soul.

A Public Viewing will be held on May 28, 2026, from 3:00PM to 5:00PM at the House Of Peace Funeral Home, 4105 East 71st Street, Cleveland, OH. The Celebration of Life Service will be on May 29, 2026, with a 10:30 AM Wake and 11:00 AM Service at First Bethel Baptist Church, 6518 Quincy Avenue, Cleveland, OH. 

We welcome you to provide your thoughts, memories, and pictures on Paul's tribute wall. To send a flower arrangement or plant a tree in memory of Paul, please click here to visit our sympathy store.