Harry Vearle Payne

Who was Harry Vearle Payne?

Harry Vearle Payne was a United States federal judge.

Born in Colonia Dublan, Mexico, Payne read law to enter the bar in 1934 and raised his family in the Lordsburg area of southwestern New Mexico. He served many years in the State Legislature as a senator and state representative, and as Speaker of the House from 1945 - 1947. He was a District judge, Sixth Judicial District of New Mexico from 1957 to 1963.

Payne was a federal judge on the United States District Court for the District of New Mexico. Payne was nominated by President John F. Kennedy on February 18, 1963, to a seat vacated by Carl A. Hatch. He was confirmed by the United States Senate on March 19, 1963, and received his commission on March 27, 1963. He served as chief judge from 1964-1978. He assumed senior status on April 6, 1978. Payne served in that capacity until July 20, 1984, due to his death.