Nancy Patricia "Pat" Payne

Mrs. Nancy Patricia "Pat" Payne, age 84, of Dallas, Georgia, and formerly of Fairmount, Georgia, entered into eternal rest on the afternoon of Tuesday, July 8, 2025, in the peaceful comfort of her home, surrounded by her loving family.

Born September 17, 1940, in Thomaston, Georgia, Pat was the cherished daughter of the late Lester Homer Harden, Sr. and Mamie Amos Harden. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Willard Payne, who passed on December 21, 2011; her sister, Kay Harden; and a step-son, Mark Payne.

A proud 1958 graduate of Robert E. Lee High School in Thomaston, Pat lived a life filled with energy, purpose, and community spirit. She and her husband John shared a dynamic and entrepreneurial journey, owning and operating several businesses throughout the years-including the Fairmount Pool Hall, Sassy Jon's Jewelry, and the ever-popular P.J.'s Pizza. Each venture reflected their creativity and love for bringing people together.

Pat had a deep and abiding love for the city of Fairmount. She was proudly engaged in its civic life and held a special place in the hearts of those who knew her. Pat was the embodiment of community service-always reaching out to those in need, offering a hand, and standing up for what she believed was right. She served as president of the local Fairmount Kiwanis Club, a chapter of Kiwanis International, where she focused on improving the lives of children and enhancing the well-being of the community. Her dedication to others was constant, and her passion for service was matched only by her pride in her town.

Known for her honesty and fairness, Pat never hesitated to speak her mind. Yet beneath her strong spirit was a heart full of kindness, always ready to care for and uplift others. She will be remembered not just for her leadership and tireless work, but for her compassion, warmth, and infectious pride in her community.

She is survived by her sons, Ralph Glennwood Brown, Jr. of Dallas, GA, and Christopher C. (Cindy) Brown of Virginia Beach, VA; daughters, Pam (Keith) Folds of Dallas, GA, and Angie (Ken) Kitchens of Panama City Beach, FL; daughter-in-law, Donna Payne of Ranger, GA. Her legacy also lives on in her grandchildren: Christina Brown, Joey (Kelisha) Disharoon, Brittany Brown, Caleb Brown, Brennan Folds, Seth Brown, and Haylee Folds; great-grandchildren: Josh Disharoon and Jaden Disharoon. She is also survived by her brother, Lester (Marsha) Harden, Jr. of Warner Robins, GA; sister, Sandra (Al) Linn of Cumming, GA; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

A graveside service celebrating the life of Mrs. Nancy Patricia "Pat" Payne will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 25, 2025, at Johnson Cemetery, with Reverend Mark Owens officiating. She will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, John.

The family will receive friends at Ponders Fairmount Chapel beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Friday morning until the hour of service.

Ponders Fairmount Chapel
2566 Hwy 411
Fairmount, Georgia
706-337-3784
Your Selected Independent Funeral Home

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