Joseph "Joe" Reece Payne

Joseph entered this world with a bang to the proud parents of Brigette Swann and Bobby Payne, Sr. on October 12, 1984. Although most of us know him as Joe, he was initially donned “The Original Lovey” by his mother because of his pure sweetness and cuddly nature, and anyone can tell you that Joe certainly perfected the art of giving the best hug around.

Of the many accomplishments and talents he commanded, Joe was most significantly a musical prodigy. He taught himself guitar, and later bass and played in many bands throughout his life. Some of his bands include Nile, Divine Heresy, Lust of Decay, Lecherous Nocturne, Domination through Impurity, Pain after Death, Sudden Fear and the Cuntfucks. Joe toured the world with some of the biggest names in metal, and yet his most satisfying and treasured moments were playing music he’d written himself- on stages or in intimate settings- and sharing the spotlight with his dearest bandmates that he was proud to also call his best friends.

Joe never met a stranger; everywhere he went it always seemed like half the room already knew him and by the end of his stay, this was definitely so. He filled any space with an infectious joyful energy, always busting jokes and spreading silliness, but he also knew how to shine his light directly at a person, uplifting or affirming any soul in need- he embodied compassion, spent his time and money on others freely, and lived and loved every day boldly, fiercely and like it might be his last.

Joe was preceded in death by his father Bobby Payne, Sr. and is most likely currently playing Johnny Cash or Elvis tunes in the next life for him. Left to honor Joe’s memory: his beloved life partner of 15 years, Jennifer Woods; adored mother, Brigette Swann; cherished siblings, Bobby Payne, Jr., Whitney Farmer, Joshua Swann, David Swann and Aaron Hopkins; nieces, Addie and Alexa Farmer and Autumn and Harper Hopkins; nephew, Maddox Swann; grandmother, Eileen Giorgetti; aunts, DeeDee Allison and Lori Dec; uncle, Kenny Bailey; cousins, Taylor, Kevin, Khristian, Paul, Brenna and Natasha; and countless friends.