1954-2026
Jeffrey Allen Payne, 71, passed away Friday, May 29, 2026, at Belle Springs Care Center. He was born on September 22, 1954, in Bellefontaine.
Jeffery is survived by his partner of 57 years, JoEtta Spain, and brother Rick (Dee (Hassel) Payne of Deluth, GA, Sisters-in-law: Lisa (Spain) and Dwight Collier, and Michelle Spain; as well as several nieces and nephews, best friend since childhood John Brown Jr (like a brother), his wife, Michele, children Jason (like a son), and Scott & Kelly Brown.
One of Jeff's greatest joys was spending time in his garage, working on his 1930 Ford Coupe with special buddies Jimmy Taylor, Jimmy Everman, and Ronnie LeVan. Most of the time, they just loved hanging out and telling stories. A 1974 Grad of BHS, Jeff took over his family's business in 1975-2013, which he enjoyed immensely working side-by-side with his Grandfather, Donald Payne, Father James Payne, and Uncle Gene Payne; He also worked during that time at Honda of America for 13 years. He retired in 2013 due to acute kidney failure but was given a longer life by his sister, Jocelyn, who gave him one of her kidneys (a perfect match).
He is preceded in death by parents James & Yurasian Payne, grandparents Donald and Francis Payne; siblings Jimmy Payne, Tony Payne, Jocelyn Payne Brown, nephew Eric Payne, and brother-in-Law Jerry Spain.
A family-directed graveside burial service will take place at 1:00 PM in the Bellefontaine Cemetery on June 20, 2026. Donations can be made to the following: Kidney Foundation, American Heart Association, and Cancer Society.
Arrangements are in the care of Jennings Farley & Seeley Funeral Home and Crematory.
