Mr. Renato "Nate" Marcel Payton

Renato Marcel Payton was born on March 26, 1955, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He is the son of Mack Willie and Gertrude (Price) Payton, who migrated from Mississippi to Milwaukee with their soon-to-be three- year-old daughter as part of the Great Migration. Renato graduated from 20th Street School (now named Phyllis Wheatley, in recognition of the first African-American woman to have a book of poetry published). He graduated from what was then called James Madison High School (now James Madison Academic Campus) in 1973. Renato followed in his parents' academic footsteps by attending Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College in Lorman, MS. The following year, the school became Alcorn State University. He graduated from Alcorn in 1977 with a B.A. in English and Mass Communication. Renato continued his education at Iowa State University and received his Master's degree in Communication in 1984. While a student at Iowa State, Renato was named the 1979 Grand Prize winner of the Alpha Epsilon Rho (AEP) international scholastic honor society's academic achievement award for students in the field of electronic media. Renato began to hone his communications skills while in college by working as a radio announcer, videographer, and production associate. A few of his work highlights include working for Station WOKJ, W JMI, Jackson, Mississippi, 1974-1977; production person, Station WOI-television, Ames, Iowa., 1980-1981; videographer, Iowa Public television, Des Moines, 1981-1984; and production associate, Farinacci and Association, St. Paul, 1984-1986. In 1986, he founded his own business and became president of RPM Productions in St. Paul, Minnesota. He was listed as a noteworthy Broadcast executive by Marquis Who's Who. In addition to owning his own production business, Renato has been a production manager, cinematographer, director of photography, and camera operator on programs such as music performances, award shows, syndicated talk shows, sporting events, and most recently, the Jennifer Hudson Show. Renato met Janice Marrs (the woman who would become his wife) in st. Paul, MN. They were married on May 14,1988, and welcomed their first child, Joi. into the family in 1993. Nate and Janice lived in the Twin Cities for 20 years. In their time in Minnesota, Nate and Janice attended Speak the Word Church, where Nate served in the video ministry. They also spent time investing in their community of friends, participating in church events such as Hallelujah Night or hosting the Happy Birthday Jesus party. While working at Target, Janice was involved in a project to develop an adoption program for at-risk youth. The experience was so moving to her and Nate that they adopted twins Justin and Renee in 2002. In 2004, Nate and Janice relocated to Southern California following a job transfer for Janice and an opportunity for Nate to grow his career in film. Renato and his wife, Janice, faithfully attended Abundant Living Family Church (now Patria Church) in Rancho Cucamonga for 14 years. During this time Nate diligently served in the camera ministry using his gifts and talents to share the good news of the Gospel of Jesus. When not working, Renato enjoyed biking, attending concerts, playing golf, trying a new recipe or restaurant, and spending time with family and friends. He especially enjoyed finding ways to share joy with others through laughter or sharing his hobbies. Nate leaves a legacy of joy, service, compassion, and dedication to his family and community. Although Nate is physically absent from us for now and present with the Lord, his spirit will remain with us as he joins our great cloud of witnesses. Nate was a son, brother, uncle, and cousin. Nate is survived by his wife Janice Payton who preceded him in death in 2021 , his children: Joi Payton (Minneapolis, MN) and Renee Payton (Fontana, CA), and son, Justin Payton (Fontana, CA), his sister, Shelia Payton (Milwaukee, WI), and a host of relatives, beloved friends, and colleagues.

Mr. Renato "Nate" Marcel Payton

March 26, 1955 - June 9, 2025