Robert "Paco" Alan Payzant Jr.

Lisbon- Robert “Paco” Alan Payzant Jr., 55, died Friday, January 6, 2023, as the result of an automobile accident.

    He was born in Brunswick on July 7, 1967, a son of Robert A. and Dorothy (Pritchard) Payzant Sr.

     Bobby grew up in Brunswick. Although Bobby spent the better part of his life in prison, he made the best of his time there becoming a dedicated volunteer in the prison hospice program. He considered it a privilege to care for a man in hospice knowing that he himself would not want to die alone, this motivated his deep commitment to his hospice work.  He always gave hope to those he shared time in prison with his kindness and his heart of gold.  Always a leader to inspire and support others.  He was called “The Great One” He joined the Maine Prisoner Advocacy Coalition as a coordinator in 2020 to continue his work with inmates. He had a huge presence when he entered a room always full of light and hope. He was a lover of all people, especially children, and had a passion for people in need and animals. Bobby was the voice for the voiceless.

     Dr. Anne Hallward interviewed Bobby twice for Safe Space Radio, once in 2014 about his work with hospice, and again in 2020 about the psychology of violence. "Talking with Bobby was such a memorable experience. I felt like I was in the presence of such a deep thinker and a courageously honest person. Bobby was so real, so willing to be vulnerable, and so kind in the ways that he sought to be of service to others. I wanted to keep talking to him for hours! He taught me about the importance of meeting someone right where they are so that they feel understood and connected. I will never forget him, and I honor the beautiful ways that he gave of himself for others."   

    He is survived by his father, Robert A. Payzant Sr., of Lisbon, three brothers, Michael Davis of Peoria, Illinois, Russell Davis of Peoria, Illinois, and Ryan Payzant of Freeport, seven sisters, Robin Gibson of Windham, Liana Fusco of Windham, Mele Davis of Peoria, Illinois, Amanda Fitzsimmons of Lewiston and Jaydean Decesaro of Portland, Toni Decesaro of Limington, and Robin Penrod of Falmouth.

     A celebration will be held from 12 PM to 6 PM on Saturday, January 28, 2023, at the Italian Heritage Center in Portland, please come and share your memories. Arrangements are by Daigle Funeral Home, 819 High Street, Bath.

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