Donald “Dude” Payne

Donald "Dude" Payne

Commissioner Donald “Dude” Payne is a third-generation resident of Brazoria County, a place he has called home for his entire life. After graduating from Brazoswood High School in 1974, Dude embarked on a journey that would see him contribute significantly to our community. His career began with Brown & Root at Nalco in Freeport, and in 1979, he joined Dow Chemical as a pipefitter apprentice. His hard work and commitment led him to become a journeyman pipefitter, a role he held until his retirement in December 2000.

In 2001, Commissioner Payne took on a new challenge, stepping into the role of County Commissioner for Precinct 1. Since that day, he has served with unwavering dedication, currently in his sixth term, a testament to the trust and respect he has earned from the residents of our county.

Commissioner Payne has been a great friend of the students and staff in Brazosport ISD. He has assisted our schools, helping with whatever support the district needed, especially in challenging times such as hurricanes and ice storms to road repairs and debris removal.

But Dude's big heart extends far beyond helping BISD and the Commissioners' Court. He serves as a liaison to several vital departments, including the Brazoria County Flood Plain Department, Health Department, and Parks Department. His commitment to community service is evident in his involvement with numerous boards and committees, all aimed at enhancing the quality of life for Brazoria County residents.

Dude Payne’s accolades speak volumes about his impact as our neighbor and friend. He received the Texas Courthouse Community Award, followed by the prestigious title of “Citizen of the Year” from the Greater Angleton Chamber of Commerce in 2010. The Boy Scouts of America honored him with the Golden Eagle Award in 2014, and in 2017, he was named the Outstanding Man of the Year by the Brazosport Chamber of Commerce. In 2021, he received the Community Impact Award from the Boys and Girls Club of Brazoria County.

Most recently, Brazoria County Commissioner Donald "Dude" Payne served as the Chairman of the Board for the Brazosport Chamber of Commerce.

Commissioner Payne's commitment to preserving our Texas coast is particularly noteworthy. As the boundaries of Precinct 1 encompass the entire Brazoria County shoreline, he has faced numerous challenges head-on. His leadership in organizing the Brazoria County Shoreline Restoration Task Force since its inception in 2002 has been instrumental in protecting our precious coastal resources.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dude is a devoted family man. He and his wife, Deborah, reside in Lake Jackson and are proud parents to four sons, as well as grandparents to ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His family is a testament to the values of our community and the service that he holds dear.

Commissioner Donald "Dude" Payne’s induction into the Brazosport ISD Wall of Fame celebrates not just his accomplishments, but the spirit of service and dedication that he embodies. Commissioner Payne’s unwavering commitment to our community inspires us all to strive for excellence and to give back to those around us.

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