Mr. Tony Marcell Payden was born on November 22, 1952, in Spartanburg, SC, to the late Oscar Leon Paden and the late Nelia Gray Payden, and was the stepson of the late John Canty.  Tony graduated from Paul M. Dorman High School in 1971.  He served in the US Army for 22 years and obtained many decorations, medals, citations, awards and ribbons before retiring.  He was of the Baptist faith.

Along with his parents and stepfather, his predeceased brothers are Ronnie L. Payden and Gary D. Payden; sister, Wanda Faye Williams.

Surviving siblings are brothers, Keith M. (Vanessa) Canty, Sr. of Hampton, GA, and John M. (Tonya) Canty of Ovilla, TX; sisters, Linda K. (Kenneth) Sanders of Spartanburg, SC, Donna C. (Wayne) Thomas of Moore, SC, Paula N. (Charles) Littlejohn of Duncan, SC, Janet E. (Willie) Wheeler of Jacksonville, FL, Brenda S. Canty, Vivian D. Canty and Carol A. Cross all of Spartanburg, SC; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Tony transitioned on August 26, 2021, to the care and keeping of our Lord.