William "Hoyt" Payne, age 81 of McCaysville, GA passed away peacefully Thursday, October 2, 2025 at his home. He was born on March 23, 1944 in Fannin County, GA to the late Lonas "Junior" Payne and Leona O'Neal Payne.

He worked with his father and uncle in the sawmill business for 30 years and later in the plumbing business with Watson Plumbing in Cumming, GA for 17 years. Hoyt was a longtime member of the Macedonia Baptist Church where he served as a deacon for 37 years and the church clerk for 20 years.

Hoyt was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Carl Payne.

Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Carolyn Suits Payne; daughters and sons-in-law, Anissa (Greg) Martin, Kristy (Randall) McGill and Jennifer Payne; grandchildren, Kristen (Jordan) Musser, Garret Martin (Fiancée Mackenzie Banks), Lexi McGill, and Sydney McGill; brother and sister-in-law, Thomas (Katie) Payne; sisters and brothers-in-law, Doris (Anthony) O'Neal and Lorene (Robert) Locke; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Hoyt's family would like to extend their appreciation to Compassus Hospice and especially to Tammy Kaylor, Aubrey Hardeman, Kelly Payne and private care giver Patsy Payne for the kindness and care extended to Hoyt during his illness.

Funeral services were conducted on Sunday, October 5, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. from the Macedonia Baptist Church with Rev. Joey Patterson and Rev. John Newton officiating. Music was provided by Rev. Robbie Chastain, Carrie Chastain, Lindy Patterson, Kevin "Peno" Oneal and Danny Ensley. Interment followed in the Mt. Liberty Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Steve Jones officiating. The following gentlemen were selected to serve as pallbearers: Garrett Martin, Jordan Musser, Greg Martin, Randall McGill, Eric Jones, and Keith Huffman. Serving as honorary pallbearers were Clyde O'Neal, Waylon O'Neal, Danny Patterson, Kevin "Peno" O'Neal, Danny Ensley, Jeremy Locke, Paul Allen, Johnny Watson, and Jason Watson. The family received friends at the funeral home Saturday evening from 4:00 p.m. until 9 p.m.

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

Akins-Cobb Funerals & Cremations of Blue Ridge, GA was in charge of the arrangements.