Reverend Abraham Milton Payton Jr.

Reverend Abraham Milton Payton, Jr.—beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, mentor, and friend—passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, at the age of 78. A man of deep faith, boundless generosity, and unwavering devotion to his family and community, he leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.

Born and raised in New Orleans, Abe graduated from McDonogh 35 High School and continued his studies at Louisiana State University in New Orleans. As a young man, he dreamed of fulfilling his mother’s ambition of becoming a doctor. But when his draft number was called, Abe chose to enlist in the U.S. Air Force rather than wait to be drafted into the Army. After completing basic training in Wichita Falls, Texas, he was stationed at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver, Colorado—a city he instantly loved and would eventually call home.

During his early days in Denver, Abe attended USO dances and social events. It was at one of those gatherings that he met Sharron, the woman who would become his wife and life partner. He knew from the start that she was the one. This August would have marked their 55th wedding anniversary—a testament to their enduring love and bond.

Abe served his country with distinction during the Vietnam War, earning the title of Airman of the Year in 1969. His compassionate work with Vietnamese children earned him special recognition from Mayor Moon Landrieu of New Orleans. He lived by a deep sense of duty—not just to his country, but to his family. Before deploying to Vietnam, he mailed his orders home so that, under the Sole Survivor Policy, his youngest brother would be spared from combat.

His career with the U.S. Postal Service began in 1965 in New Orleans and resumed in Colorado after his military service. Over four decades of combined service, he rose through the ranks to become a respected manager, known for his meticulous attention to detail and his gift for creating warm, welcoming environments. Every post office he led became the top seller of stamps, a reflection of his leadership and personable nature. Abe’s kindness left such an impression that local restaurant owners would often refuse to let him pay—grateful for the quiet generosity he had extended to others.

Faith was the foundation of Abe’s life. As a young man, he served as the first radio announcer for Pleasant Zion Baptist Church’s inaugural broadcast in New Orleans. In Colorado, he rooted himself at First Baptist Church of Aurora, where he served faithfully as a deacon, Sunday School teacher, and Bible study leader. After retiring from the Post Office, Abe deepened his commitment to ministry, serving as assistant pastor and church treasurer. He was formally ordained as a minister in 2009 and earned his Master’s degree in Pastoral Ministry from Trinity College of the Bible and Theological Seminary in 2013. Every day, he prayed for each family member by name.

Abe’s love extended far beyond his home. He built lasting connections with neighbors, community members, and even local business staff. He knew the names—and life stories—of his pharmacist, mail carrier, and the employees at his favorite restaurants like Olive Garden, Panera Bread, Pizza Hut, and Texas Roadhouse. Whether you were a family member or a stranger, Abe made you feel seen, valued, and loved.

He was preceded in death by his father, Abraham, and his brother, Ronald. He also preceded his beloved mother, Octavia, who passed away just three days after him. He is survived by his devoted wife, Sharron; his siblings Barry, Joycelyn, Dareen (Michael), and Christsandra (Charles); his children Jonna, Latonia, and Mark (Tennille); his grandchildren Allison, Sara, Alyssa (Colin), David, Kyndall, and Kaylen; and his great-grandson Calvin.

Rev. Abraham Milton Payton, Jr. was truly one of a kind. His life was a living testimony to faith, love, humility, and service. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who had the blessing of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the First Baptist Church of Aurora Missions Fund, in memory of Reverend Abraham M. Payton, Jr., whose passion was to spread the Word of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Send to: FBCA Mission c/o First Baptist Church of Aurora 1550 Havana St. Aurora, CO 80010

The Funeral Service will be livestreamed. Please click on the link below for the live streaming.

Abraham Milton Payton Jr – BXcited