James Fairess Payne, age 86, of Epworth, Georgia passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026 in Blue Ridge, Georgia.

He was born on January 30, 1940 in Blue Ridge, Georgia to the late Morris and Amy Patterson Payne. James was of the Baptist faith. He worked for many years at Sky City, and later at Roses until his retirement.

James was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Lorene Clowers, Irene and Ralph Allen, Christine Cook, Pauline Langford, and Willie Patterson.

He is survived by many loving cousins and special friends.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. from the Akins-Cobb Blue Ridge Chapel with Rev. John Newton officiating. Music will be provided by Rev. Kenny O'Neal and Kim O'Neal. Interment will follow in the Mt. Liberty Baptist Church Cemetery with the following serving as pallbearers: Danny Ensley, Robert Locke, James Rymer, Brandon Anderson, and Matthew Deal. The family will visit with friends at the Akins-Cobb Funerals & Cremations of Blue Ridge, Georgia on Saturday, May 16, 2026 prior to the service from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m.

Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.akinscobb.com

Akins-Cobb Funerals & Cremations of Blue Ridge, GA is in charge of these arrangements.