Kiwanis’ Dinner to Honor Former West Caldwell Councilman William Payne

He touched the lives of young and old alike, serving on his local town council, helping the children of our town cross the streets safely, staying active in the American Legion, and so much more.  was the kind of man that everyone would like to call neighbor and friend, and rarely is a man remembered so fondly by so many. 

The Caldwells on Nov. 10, 2010, when Payne was hit by a car while volunteering as a crossing guard. He was 76.

On Feb. 24, his friends from throughout the Caldwells and beyond will come together to honor him at the annual . Each year, the Kiwanis of Caldwell-West Essex honors an individual who has affected positive change in our community. This year, the organization will pay tribute to Payne.

“We expect a large group to come out in Bill’s honor,” said Pat Collura who is organizing the event. “We have invited the mayors of both towns, as well as Congressman [Rodney] Frelinghuysen, and will present his family with a plaque honoring his service to the community.” Payne's wife of 49 years, Polly, will accept the plaque on behalf of the family. 

In addition, the Kiwanis will donate $500 toward a scholarship in Payne's memory. “As of now, there is not a scholarship established, but we expect that there will be at least one in the future,” added Collura. 

Born and raised in Newark, Bill Payne lived in West Orange, before moving his family to West Caldwell 41 years ago. He was employed by the New Jersey State Chamber of Commerce for 27 years before retiring in 1999 as vice president and general manager.

Active in both Caldwell and West Caldwell, Payne was before stepping down in 2009 after 27 years of service. He was inducted into the Elected Officials Hall of Fame during the 11th Annual Mayors Legislative Day in 2003, and he served on the town’s board of health and board of adjustment.

Payne also served as treasurer for in Caldwell, was chairman of the , a member of the , coached his children’s sports teams, served as president of the Home-School Association, and volunteered with a variety of community groups, including Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts and Indian Guides. He could also be seen at the annual services and was a regular at local schools’ Flag Day celebrations with his fellow members of the .

The  will take place on Thursday, Feb. 24, at Mayfair Farms, West Orange. Tickets are $40 and all are invited to attend. Those interested should mail payment to Kiwanis of Caldwell-West Essex, 21 Bowers Road, Caldwell. For more information or questions, call 973-228-2967.