James Parker “Jim” Payne, of Mt, Juliet, TN, lovingly known as Jim or Pop, passed away peacefully surrounded by his devoted family after a valiant five-year battle with cancer. He faced his illness with courage, grace, and a constant spirit of encouragement for those around him.
Born on October 11, 1934, in Decherd, TN, to Lindsey and Jennie Ann (Duncan) Payne, Jim’s family relocated to Akron, OH, during the Great Depression in search of work. He remained in Akron through his youth, growing into a man who would leave a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Jim served his country with honor in the United States Army from 1957 to 1959. He was immensely proud of his service, particularly his involvement in the early missile program at White Sands, NM, a contribution that spoke to his patriotism and dedication. In 1966, through family friends, Jim met Pauline Lois (Cawthron), the love of his life. They were married on August 6 of that year at the Cathedral of Tomorrow, with their close friend, Rex Humbard, officiating. Together, they built a life full of love, faith, and adventure.
Jim had a long and successful career in pharmaceutical sales with Savage Laboratories, where he earned the affectionate nickname “the Cowboy.” In 1976, Savage Laboratories gave Jim and Pauline the chance to return to Tennessee, a dream they had long held. Settling in Hermitage with their young family, Jim excelled in his work, winning numerous awards and the company’s prestigious Presidential Award. This allowed Jim and Pauline to travel the world, a passion they cherished.
After his retirement, Jim and Pauline continued their love of adventure, traveling to all 50 states in their fifth wheel, collecting memories and friendships across the country. A lover of Southern Gospel music, Jim attended countless concerts and gospel singings, where his laughter and enthusiasm were contagious.
Above all, Jim was a man of deep faith and love for his family. His most cherished roles were husband, father, and grandfather. He instilled in his children and five grandsons the importance of faith in Jesus Christ and dedication to their country. His love for others and his unfailing kindness made him a friend to everyone he met. He was an active member of Victory Baptist Church in Mt. Juliet, where he sang in the choir and participated in Sunday school until a month before his passing.
A proud 57-year Mason, Jim was also an active member of Mt. Juliet Lodge 642. He was also an enthusiastic volunteer at the Miss Tennessee USA, Miss Georgia USA and Miss Mississippi USA pageants for the past 32 years.
In the past year, Jim moved to Rutland Place Senior Living, where he became an integral part of the community, joyfully singing with the Joy Singers and participating in various activities. His infectious smile, warm laughter, and kind spirit filled every room he entered. Just weeks before his passing, Jim’s family and friends celebrated his 90th birthday early, gathering a crowd of people whose lives he had touched.
His presence will be deeply missed, but the stories, wisdom, humor, and joy he brought into the world will continue to live on through his family and friends. We take comfort in knowing that he is resting in the arms of his Lord and Savior. A life well lived and loved, Jim will forever be remembered for his kindness, faith, and deep love for his family and friends. His legacy is one of honor, laughter, and unwavering love.
Jim is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Kimberly and Lee Greenwood, son and daughter-in-law, Andrew and Keela Payne; and his five beloved grandsons, Dalton (Sarah) Greenwood, Parker Greenwood, Aiden Payne, Brenden Payne, and Cian Payne. He is preceded in death by his wife, Pauline “Honey” Payne; infant son, Randall James; and his younger brother, Chuck Payne.
Funeral service will be conducted at 3 p.m., Thursday, October 3, 2024 at Victory Baptist Church, 1777 Tate Lane, Mt. Juliet, TN with Rev. Chuck Groover officiating. Visitation will be on Thursday at the church from noon until service time. A Masonic service will be conducted at 10 a.m. Friday, October 4, 2024 at Bond Memorial Chapel and interment will follow at 1 p.m. Friday, October 4, 2024 at Franklin Memorial Gardens in Winchester, TN.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Masonic Widows and Orphans Fund of TN, 100 7th Ave. No., Suite 1, Nashville, TN 37203 or to Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, 2220 Pierce Avenue, Nashville, TN 37232.
Arrangements by Bond Memorial Chapel, 1098 Weston Drive, Mt. Juliet, TN. (615) 773-2663, www.bondmemorial.com
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