James Edward "Shorty" Payton

James Edward Payton, son of the late Freda Mae Payton was born August 29, 1967 in Mappsville, Virginia. He departed this life on Tuesday December 10, 2024 at BeeBee Hospital in Lewes, Delaware.
James, affectionately known as "Shorty," was educated in the Accomack County Public School System and went on to work for many years as a live haul chicken catcher at Perdue Farms and Tyson Foods. His hardworking spirit and dedication to his job earned him the respect of his peers and colleagues.
In 2001, James accepted Christ as his Savior and became a member of Macedonia Baptist Church in Neptune, New Jersey, where he was baptized and faithfully served on the Men's Usher Board. That same year, he began working at Iron Mountain Warehouse in Freehold, New Jersey, where he continued his service until 2011, when health challenges prompted him to retire.
In 1995, het met the love of his life and in 2002, James was united in marriage to Tassolovat Payton. Together they enjoyed 29 years of love, companionship, and mutual respect until his passing.
James had a passion for cooking, particularly his famous chicken and dumplings, mashed potatoes and gravy, and his signature potato salad, which he lovingly prepared for family cookouts. He also enjoyed riding and spending time with his grandchildren. His warmth, joy, and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Freda Mae Payton; two sons, Tyrik Press and Dario Woods; sister, Shirley Ann Mason; and mother-in-law, Grace Wilson.
James leaves to cherish fond memories his loving wife, Tassolovat Payton of Millsboro, DE; three daughters, Tyeasha Creekmore of Parksley, VA, Danielle Sutton, and Desiree Sutton, both of Asbury Park, NJ; two sons, Darnell Sutton of Asbury Park, NJ and Daniel (Tina) Sutton of Florence, NJ; one godson, Keith Rodgers; twenty grandchildren; four sisters, Gloria Payton, Josephine Payton, Katina Payton, and Aleisa (Pierre) Downing all of Parksley, VA; three brothers, Arthur Yant, Paul Payton, both of New Church, VA, and Larry Payton of Parksley, VA; father-in-law, Calvin Press; five sisters-in-law, Laverne Wise, Charlene Wise, Renny (Derwin) Strand, and Tammy (Clayton) Martin; five brothers-in-law, Tony Donaway, Melvin Scarbough, David Wise, Simon Wise, and Sylvester(Kathleen) Wise; and host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
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