Neil E. Payson, 84, died Dec. 1, 2014 at the Maine Veterans Home in Augusta.

He was born Feb. 3, 1930 in Cushing to Warren and Mary (Cameron) Payson. He grew up in Cozy Harbor on Southport Island and graduated from Boothbay Harbor High School. He lived most of his life on Dogfish Head, Southport. He served in the U.S. Army.

He worked at several of the area boat-yards as a painter. He built his own skiffs and lobstered. He also worked as a carpenter with Maurice Sherman.

He was a member of the Southport Fire Department and was a 50-year member of Masonic Seaside Lodge #144. He was also a member of the Boothbay Region Lions Club. He was an “elegant” cook, especially with seafood. He was a big-hearted, trustworthy friend who will be missed by all those who knew him. He enjoyed going to Lighthouse Beach on Southport every day that he could, year-round.

He was predeceased by his parents and by two brothers, Franklin Payson and Norman Payson Sr.

He is survived by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. He was known as “Uncle Neil” to many, whether family or not.

Friends are welcome to join the family for a time of visitation from 10 a.m. to noon with a Masonic service at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13 at Hall’s of Boothbay, 975 Wiscasset Road in Boothbay. Burial will follow in the Union Cemetery in Southport.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Neil’s memory to the Southport Fire Department, c/o Town of Southport, Southport, ME 04576.

You can share condolences at www.hallfuneralhomes.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Hall’s of Boothbay.