James DeForrest Payne Sr., 85, of Sugar Hill, GA passed away on Friday, January 03, 2014. He was preceded in death by his Daughter Sheryl Lynn Payne; parents Eunice and Cliff Payne; sister Jeanette Pelot. He is survived by his wife of sixty-five years, Elaine Ivey Payne, Sugar Hill, GA; Daughter Kathy S. and Floyd
Gent, Wellesley, MA; Son James D. and Lynne Payne Jr., Elberton, GA; Grandchildren Lindsey and Joshua Brackett; James Corey and Alaina Payne; Katy and Paul Stephens; Ashley and DJ Hill; Calley Payne; Kelsey Payne; Audrey Payne; Adam and Dianne Gent; Kelly and Michael Engelskirger; Benjamin Gent; Ten great grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins. Mr. Payne went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 3, 2014. He was born on November 22, 1928 in Villa Rica, GA and grew up in South West Atlanta. Mr. Payne married the love of his life, Elaine Ivey on September 11, 1948. They cherished their marriage. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Buford and a member of The Upper Room Sunday School Class for over forty years. Mr. Payne was a salesman for Life of Georgia Insurance Company, before beginning his career with Williamson-Dickie Manufacturing Company in 1963. He achieved Nation-Wide Top Shipper of the Year in 1977.
Funeral service will be held Monday, January 6, 2014 at 11:00 A.M. at the First Baptist Church of Buford with Rev. Wayne Johnson and Joe Ivey officiating. Interment will be at the Westview Cemetery in Atlanta with Andy Ivey officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday January 5, 2014 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. To express condolences, please sign our online guest book at www.flaniganfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements by: Junior E. Flanigan of Flanigan Funeral Home and Crematory, Buford, GA, 770-932-1133.
