Darry Adrian Payton

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Darry Adrian Payton, a beloved father, grandfather, and long-time resident of Roopville, Georgia, who departed this life on November 26, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on December 11, 1950, in Bowdon, Georgia, Darry was a man of steadfast dedication to both his family and his work.
Darry graduated from Central High School before earning his associate's degree in business from West Georgia Technical College. He proudly dedicated over 40 years to Southwire, where he served as a Shipping Supervisor, exemplifying the values of hard work and commitment. His career was marked by integrity and an unwavering work ethic that served as an inspiration to his colleagues.
As a devoted member of the Roopville Road Baptist Church, Darry found joy and purpose within his faith and community. Outside of work, he cherished spending time in his garden, nurturing chickens, and tending to his cows. Most of all, his heart belonged to his grandchildren, Stella, Maggie, Payton, and Samuel, whose smiles brought him immeasurable joy and fulfillment.
Darry is survived by his two daughters, Stephanie McGhee and her husband Spencer McGhee, and Abby Messer and her husband Zach Messer. He also leaves behind his sister, Patricia Rice. He will be deeply missed by his family, who will always hold a special place for him in their hearts.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Susan Robinson Payton; his father, Adrian Payton; his mother, Maxine Payne Woodard; his brother, Jesse Payton; and his sister, Sharon Mauldin.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Roopville Road Baptist Church, with Dr. Stephen Peeples officiating and Tim Eady and Zach Messer rendering the eulogy. Interment will follow in Veal Community Cemetery with Barry Sim, Kenneth Marlow, Duane Marlow, Barry McManus, Jack McLendon, and Tim Eady serving as pallbearers. Matt Payton, Josh Payton, Roger King, Ricky McLendon, and David Causey will be seated as honorary pallbearers.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at Martin & Hightower Funeral Home from 3:00 PM until 6:00 PM, offering loved ones an opportunity to pay their respects and share cherished memories.
Messages of condolence may be shared with the family at www.martin-hightower.com. Martin & Hightower Heritage Chapel is honored to serve the Payton family during this time.