Lynn Payne

Lynn Payne, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on August 25, 1943, in Lumber City, GA, Lynn was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who will be remembered for his loving nature and strong sense of purpose in life. 

Lynn grew up on the family farm in Telfair County, learning many of the skills he used throughout his professional and personal life.  He graduated from Lumber City High School and went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Navy and subsequently completed his studies at Georgia State University.  His dedication to service continued in his professional life, which was marked by a distinguished 35-year career with Bellsouth, where he made significant contributions as a Regional Director.

Lynn came from a large family, the oldest son of seven, and his family relationships were the cornerstone of his life. He was preceded in death by his mother Willie Maude Williams Haymons, stepfather George Haymons, daughter Melissa Lynn (Sam) Free, sisters Sue Smith and Judy Gore.   Lynn is survived by his wife Sharon Payne, his daughter, Melanie Church (Kevin), his grandchildren Kristy Jones, Samantha Sweet, Max Sweet, and his great-grandchildren Brenden, Tayler, Joshua Jones, and Gunner Burnett. He is also survived by four living siblings, Randy Haymons, Greg Haymons, Diana Larkey and Beth Scarborough, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other family members, and close friends who all held a special place in his heart.

Lynn's Christian faith was essential to him, and he was an active member of Crossroads Baptist Church. His commitment to his faith was evident in both his words and actions, and he found great comfort and community in his church family.

Beyond his work and family, Lynn was an avid outdoorsman and a steward of land.  He had a very successful corporate work career but also enjoyed nature, pursuing his passion for hunting elk, deer, and upland birds. He also embraced the life of a farmer, working his cattle and cutting hay, which connected him to the land he loved so deeply.
 

Lynn lived life fully and there was a rare day that a “project” did not require his attention.  He loved getting his friends together for a fish fry at the barn.  He and Sharon traveled often.  He kept up with old friends, new friends and was the heart and soul of his family.  While the last few years of his life were difficult, he will leave a legacy of hard work coupled with kindness.

A Memorial Service for Lynn will be held at 2 o’clock Sunday, July 20, 2025 at Crossroads Baptist Church with Pastor Brandon Stanley officiating.  The family will receive friends at the church from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM on Sunday prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund at www.curealz.org , Alzheimer’s Association at www.donorsevices.alz.org , or to Crossroads Baptist Church Mission Fund, 227 Hwy 229, Social Circle, GA 30025 .

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lynn Payne, please visit our floral store.