Gary Bernard Payne was born on June 24, 1964, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Levi Payne Jr. and Louise Payne-Smith. On July 7, 2026, Gary peacefully entered eternal rest. As we gather to celebrate his life, we remember a man who was creative, talented, funny, resilient, and uniquely gifted. Though our hearts are heavy, we are grateful for the memories, laughter, music, and moments that made Gary who he was.

From an early age, Gary had a natural curiosity and a gift for understanding how things worked. As a child, he was known for taking things apart just to figure out how they were made, then putting them back together again. His mechanical abilities were evident from a young age and were strengthened through the time he spent with his father, Levi Payne Jr.

Gary’s father was a long-haul truck driver who traveled across the country, and Gary spent many hours helping him work on his trucks. Those moments helped shape Gary’s love for mechanics and laid the foundation for the skills that would become such an important part of his life.

Gary was adventurous and creative. He loved motorcycles and minibikes and even built one himself, proudly riding it throughout the neighborhood. His ability to create, repair, and figure things out was a gift that followed him throughout his entire life.

Gary attended Cleveland Public Schools and graduated from Max Hayes Technical High School, where he earned a certificate in Automotive Technology and Collision Repair. After graduation, he began his career at Midas Auto Repair, where his natural talent and passion for working on vehicles allowed him to excel. Later, Gary worked for a company that repaired and renovated homes and businesses. He enjoyed working with his hands and found satisfaction in fixing things and using his skills to help others.

Although Gary was gifted mechanically, music was one of the greatest passions of his life. During the late 1980s, he became part of Cleveland’s legendary Clubstyle Mix Show on WDMT 108 FM, one of the first radio programs in the country to bring hip-hop and rap music to mainstream radio audiences. It was during this time that “ClubStyle Lou” was born.

The name “Lou” was a loving tribute to his mother, Louise, who believed in his talent and supported his dream by purchasing his first set of turntables. With her encouragement, Gary developed his gift as a DJ, bringing energy, excitement, and music to radio listeners, house parties, and community events. His passion for music brought people together and created memories that will continue to live on.

Gary’s life was filled with both joyful moments and difficult seasons. Like many people, he faced personal struggles along his journey. Those struggles were a part of his story, but they were not the entirety of who he was. Gary had a heart that desired better, and he continued to seek God while facing the battles of life. His journey reminds us that God’s grace reaches us even in our weakest moments.

Gary had a special gift for making people laugh. His quick wit, infectious smile, and bubbly personality could brighten any room. He was funny, full of life, and unforgettable to those who had the privilege of knowing him. The laughter he shared, the stories he told, and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of many.

Later in life, Gary worked for a tree company where he suffered a severe head injury that affected his health. Despite the challenges that followed, Gary continued to push forward. He remained the same creative person who enjoyed fixing things, sharing laughs, and staying connected with family and friends whenever he could.

Most importantly, Gary believed in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He confessed with his mouth that Jesus is Lord and believed in his heart that God raised Him from the dead. Gary’s walk with God was personal. Although he faced struggles and battles, he loved the Lord and held onto the hope, mercy, and forgiveness found through Jesus Christ.

Gary’s family finds comfort in knowing that God sees every struggle, knows every heart, and remains close to those who seek Him.

As we hold onto the promise of God’s Word and the hope of resurrection, we remember those who went before Gary with love and honor.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Levi Payne Jr., and his beloved daughter, Patrice Peters.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother, Louise Payne-Smith; his children, Latrice Peters, Imani Payne, and Destine Payne; his grandchildren, Peppie, Tiniyah, Kavion, Armani, Autumn, Ava, Aubrey, Nasir, Ashton, Princess, Kyla, and Za’Riah; his sister, Kimberly Jones; his brother, Kenneth Payne (Jackie); his nieces, Raven Payne, Khrist’l Holliday, and Danasia Holliday; his nephews, Christopher Holliday and Kenneth Payne Jr.; his great-niece, Zaria; his great nephews, Justyn, Jayce, and Saynt; and a host of loving aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Today, we celebrate Gary’s life and remember the many things that made him unique: the curious child who loved to build and create, the son who learned from his father, the skilled mechanic who could fix almost anything, the DJ known as ClubStyle Lou, the man who made people laugh, and the person who continued to reach for God despite life’s challenges.

Though the turntables have grown quiet, the music of ClubStyle Lou will forever play in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His laughter will remain in our memories, his creativity will continue to inspire us, and his life story will never be forgotten.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. ”Psalm 34:18

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever missed. Rest peacefully, Gary. Until we meet again…