The passing of Larry Payne, the esteemed President and CEO of Houston Habitat for Humanity, has left a profound void in the hearts of many. Payne, an influential figure in Houston’s civic sphere, passed away on Sunday night after a courageous battle with cancer. His impact stretched far and wide, leaving an indelible mark on the community he tirelessly served.
Known for his remarkable leadership, Payne held pivotal roles across public service, education, and the nonprofit sector during his illustrious 35-year career. As the President of The Educational Excellence Resource Group LLC, he offered invaluable expertise in leadership, diversity, and strategic planning. Payne’s dedication to affordable housing was evident during his tenure at Houston Habitat for Humanity, where he tripled home production and secured an endowment from Oprah Winfrey for the Angel Lane Subdivision.
Krista Coleman posted on Facebook,
“My mentor and dear friend, Larry Payne, has earned his wings.Matthew 25:21King James Version21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, among numerous leaders, paid tribute to Payne’s multifaceted contributions, highlighting his role as a civic leader, educator, and mentor. Payne’s extensive service included positions at the city, state, and congressional levels, leaving an enduring impact on various programs and initiatives.
Throughout his career, Payne championed educational excellence, earning accolades such as the Alumni of the Year from The University of St. Thomas for his unwavering commitment to community service. His advocacy extended to hosting TV and radio shows focused on leadership and societal shifts, further illustrating his dedication to fostering dialogue on critical issues.
The details concerning Larry Payne’s obituary and funeral arrangements will be provided by the family, allowing the community to come together and honor the remarkable legacy he leaves behind.”
