Remembering Mr. E.I. Pride

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The distinguished educator and administrator, Dr. Clyde Irving Payne, died on Aug. 7 at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and profound impact on countless students.

A decorated scholar, Dr. Payne earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education at SUNY Albany, before earning a second master’s degree in mathematics and completing his doctorate in education at Indiana University.

Dr. Payne began teaching mathematics at West Babylon High School in 1958 before he began working in the East Islip School District in 1963. During his almost 33 years at East Islip, he served as chairman of the mathematics department, assistant principal, and principal of the high school. He ultimately ended his career in education while working at Dowling College, where he worked as the dean for the School of Education, vice president of student affairs, and assistant to the principal for special projects.

As the principal of East Islip High School, he coined the “E.I. Pride” mantra, and would bellow each morning about E.I. pride over the loudspeaker. The E.I. Pride mantra encouraged students to appreciate their community and be proud of where they came from.

Dr. Payne is known to have gained so much respect because he respected everyone he came across.

“He had the most wonderful effect on everyone that was around him,” shared alumna Heather Hebron. “You always felt so special in his presence, when in fact, it was he who was the special one.”

In the wake of his death, former students reflected on the monumental impact he had on their lives.

“I cannot think of a single other teacher or professor in all my years that had a more positive and profound impact on my student life. I tell stories of Dr. Payne whenever I talk to anyone about the good times of high school,” shared alumnus Rich McKay. “He was a real mentor, positive influence, and friend all through school. The education world and the world in general is a little less amazing without him.”

Dr. Payne is not only held in high regard by students, but by colleagues as well.

Former EIHS math teacher Ira Friedman was hired by Dr. Payne in 1970 while Dr. Payne was the chairman of the math department.

“Except for two teachers, the rest of us were within our first or second year at the school, so we had not worked together as a team,” explained Friedman. “Dr. Payne made the department the most dedicated and organized one that I have previously seen. He was critical about our lesson plans and observed us with an eye [known to be] professional and caring. Later in life, we all gave thanks to how he molded us into what we felt was the best department anywhere.”

Even while pushing the educators around him to work hard and strive for greatness, Dr. Payne was still loved by his co-workers for his kindness, compassion, and sense of humor.

“Not a single one of us did not love him,” added Friedman. “I don’t recall any day that he was not smiling.”

Dr. Payne was largely regarded as the epitome of E.I. pride. He never missed a concert, sporting event, prom or performance. He was deeply involved in his community. He was a devoted member of St. Peter’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church in Bay Shore, where he served faithfully as a vestry member and warden for 61 years. He also chaired the board of trustees at South Shore University Hospital and served on the board of trustees at North Shore University Hospital.

Dr. Payne is survived by his wife of 62 years, Constance Payne; their three children, Monica Payne of Laurel, M.D., Michelle (Harvey) Jones of Bear, Del., and Marc (Crystal) Payne of Silver Spring, Md.; and his three cherished grandchildren, Taylor Jones, Erica Jones, and Ashley Payne.

Surely, his legacy will live on through every one who has walked the halls of EIHS and felt Dr. Payne’s pride in the East Islip community for themselves.

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First photo courtesy of Marc Payne.
Second photo courtesy of Teal Rizzo.