He was born November 12, 1942 to the late William Ray and Clora Pettry Payne.
Also preceding him in death were his wife, Shelia Walker Payne; son, James Robert; brothers, Robert Ray, Clyde Eugene, William Ray Jr., Franklin D.R., John Lee; sisters, Donna Kay, Tressie Ann, Rose Ann, Loretta Nadine, Christine Mae.
James was a paratrooper in the United States Army. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing and bowling.
He is survived by his daughter, Terry (David) Saunders of St. Albans; brother, Gary Dean (Joanne) Payne of Columbia, MD; sister, Sherry Lynn (Hal) Bishop of Emporia, KS; 5 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; a special thank you to his niece, Ella Light for all of her help.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.
The online guestbook can be accessed at www.stevensandgrass.com
Stevens & Grass Funeral Home, Malden is in charge of arrangements.
