John Emerson Payne

John Emerson Payne, age 84, of Englewood passed away Sunday, January 23, 2022 at his home. Veteran of the US Army, John served during the Korean War as a Military Police Officer. He retired as a pipefitter at TVA and was a member of East Athens Baptist Church. John loved spending time with his family, telling his stories and showing his slideshows. He was a huge Lady Vols fan and enjoyed antique cars.

John was preceded in death by his mother and father, Bessie and Herbert Payne; loving wife of 45 years, Doris Ferrari Payne; sister, Betty Payne Clark.

He is survived by his wife, Kaye Kyker of Englewood; daughter and son-in-law, Theresa “Terri” and Robert Norman of Etowah; daughter and son-in-law, Paula “Polly” and Jim Slack of Athens; grandchildren, Christy, Brittany (Zach) Noah, Ben (Sarah), Chris and Darby; several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; brother, Ralph (Faye) Payne of Maryville; sister Evelyn Saunders of Athens; special friend and neighbor Judy Kirksey of Englewood. 

Family will welcome friends for a graveside service 1:00 p.m. Thursday, January 27, 2022 in McMinn Memory Gardens with Associate Pastor, Mike Dannel officiating.