James Payton

1941 - 2025

James "Jim" E. Payton of Jerome, Idaho, went home to his Lord and Savior on June 21, 2025, at the age of 83.

Jim was born in Meridian, Idaho, on December 24, 1941, to Mary Eloise and Maurice Payton. He graduated from Meridian High School in 1959. He then attended Boise Junior College for two years before attending Idaho State University in Pocatello where he received his degree in pharmacy. Jim also completed two additional years of study in pharmacognosy.

Jim married his high school sweetheart, Sandra Kline, while attending ISU. Together they had three children, Brent, Terry and Sherry. Sadly, Sandra passed away at a young age leaving Jim to care for his three children.

Later, while working as a pharmacist in Jerome, Jim met a student nurse and in 1989, married the love of his life, Elaine. She had two daughters, Paula and Sonyalee, that Jim loved as his own. Together Jim and Elaine had three more sons, James Andrew, Amos Joshua, and Nathaniel Maurice.

Jim served his community for 55 years as a pharmacist. He loved his job but mostly loved helping people. He was also a past president and treasurer of the Kiwanis and Jaycees. He excelled at martial arts and was a 3rd degree black belt and Sensei in Karate. Jim enjoyed teaching others and would rarely pass up an opportunity to share words of wisdom with anyone who would listen.

He is survived by his wife Elaine and eight children, Brent, Terry (Jonell), Sherry (Jim), Paula (Reb), Sonyalee (Patrick), Andrew, Joshua (Kathleen), and Nathaniel (Marissa); as well as 12 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Jim was known for his intelligence, kindness, and his firm belief in the saving grace of Jesus Christ. He was loved by his family and will be forever missed.