Stefani Payne
Mark was obsessed with protecting his people. He had big brother energy even though he was the youngest child. He loved Kaden fiercely and always wanted what was best for him. He checked in with me often and was very outwardly thankful and appreciative for everything we were doing for Kaden. Mostly, he was proud of Kaden. Proud of his accomplishments, proud of his taste in music and love of sports. But he was most proud of the man that he is becoming.
Mark was honest to a fault and we teased him a lot for this - often sharing details in stories that others might hold back.
My other kids have always referred to Mark as “Uncle Mark” - Uncle Mark always had $1 bills and would give them to the kids every time he saw them. It always made their day. He would buy all of my kids Christmas gifts and let them open them a few days early so he’d be the cool uncle.
I am proud of the coparenting/friendship that we had. He was our buddy, he was everyone’s buddy. Uncle Mark will be missed by so many.