Gene Payne

He was born June 29, 1945, to Lyman Leroy Payne and Mildred Caldwell Payne in Irwinton, Georgia -

Gene survived many trials and tribulations on this earth, beginning when as a baby he almost lost his life to spinal meningitis. The sickness left him with a learning disorder that was not diagnosed until much later in life. Through all his life, Gene struggled with the hurtful stigma of an undiagnosed learning disability that eventually led to confrontations and fighting. Gene was unable to finish school. He got into mischief and served time, but, while incarcerated he faithfully studied the bible and even began to minister to others. That was his saving grace. Gene was of the Baptist Faith and spoke often of how he fully trusted in God.

More determined than most realized, Gene constantly challenged himself and because of his diligence and determination he certainly became very successful at being much more than just “a jack of all trades”, though he literally lived that sentiment. Gene lived out most little boy’s dreams in that during his lifetime he was a talented carpenter and Owner/Operator of Payne Construction Company . . . but he also became a Firefighter/EMT - as a paid man, then as a volunteer, eventually becoming Volunteer Chief; he was blessed to work in several capacities in law enforcement and other County positions. He even drove a tour bus for a while and at times he made a living as Owner/Operator driving his “big rig and dump trucks” for several years.

On a positive note, many embraced Gene’s humor, his never-ending gift of gab and his love for life. Those were an attraction for his future wife. In September of 1979 Gene married the love of his life, Patsy (Willis) Krieg. He embraced her son as his own. The family number increased in 1981 with the birth of a daughter.

Because of Gene’s love of people, young and old, he was sought out each year to dress the part of the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus at Community and church events, as well as at the local nursing homes. This put smiles on many faces. That was Gene’s absolute favorite thing - putting smiles on faces!

Gene loved to cook - and to share it. He was an avid hunter and outdoorsman.

Gene’s love of life, mankind and animals often compromised his own safety; but he was never driven to be the hero, or gain attention in that manner - it’s just the selfless way he was! Gene Payne had such a love for life and an exuberant personality that drove him to always help others. Gene was a hardworking man very devoted to his family and friends. He was a doting son, a loving husband, a good father, and a very special grandfather called “Pee-Paw”. He will be missed so much because his life made a real difference to us.

Gene is preceded in death by his loving Mother, Mildred Epps; his Father, Lyman Payne; Step fathers, “Daddy Rob” Murphy, and Winifred Epps; Brothers, Roy Payne and Steve Murphy; Sisters, Margie Payne Abernathy, Myrtice Payne Ussery and his daughter, Terri.

Left to cherish his memory are his best friend and wife of 44 Years, Patsy; Children: Bryan (Wendy) Krieg of Cochran; Angela Payne (Mike Perkins) Kathleen; precious grandchildren: Brooke, Jordyn and Raylond; surviving siblings: Bobbie (Steve) Worthy/Warner Robins GA, Robert F. (Debra) Murphy/Gordon Ga, and brother-in-law Jackie Ussery/Dublin GA; family by marriage, Marcia Willis Alexander; Rhonda Willis; Tom Alexander; a host of nieces and nephews, and many dear friends and bonus daughter, Erin Bryant.

The family would like to thank Dr. Chitty and staff for all of their kindness.

Visitation and service to be held from 2-4pm on Monday, May 30, 2022 at Edo Miller Funeral Home Chapel in Brunswick, GA. Interment in Palmetto Cemetery will be held on Tuesday, May 31, 2022 at 10am.

In lieu of flowers and customary remembrances, the family requests gifts in memory of Gene should be made to the Hospice of the Golden Isles, or the church or charity of your choice.

Edo Miller and Sons Funeral home is entrusted with arrangements. www.edomillerandsons.com

He literally lived being “the jack of all trades” . . . almost