Willie Hugh Payne

On Sunday, September 8, 2024 Hugh Payne left this world and entered the gates of Heaven into the arms of his savior Jesus Christ. Willie Hugh Payne was born October 14, 1941 in Forsyth County. After meeting Jesus face to face, where his faith ended in sight we believe he made his way to see his red headed baby girl Melanie with big hugs. He then went to his parents Amos and Esther Whitmire Payne, his sisters Annie Ruth Pilcher and Reba Star Hamby. Many aunts, uncles and family greeted him as well.

Hugh is survived by his Beloved of 58 years Mary Ann Holcomb Payne. Daughters and sons, Lorrie and Dusty Clark and Amy and Jeff Bennett. The light in his eyes belong to his grandchildren Clay and Colin Bennett, Elijah and Wil Clark, Ellie and Braden Harper and chosen granddaughters Jordan and Taylor Amos. And the ones that put the biggest smiles on his face, great grandchildren Autumn Blakely Harper, Cooper Amos, Karsen Amos Evans and Millie Amos. Brothers-in-law Johnny Holcomb, Howard and Christine Holcomb and best friend and forever sister Sandy King who affectionately called him Hugh Baby. Nieces and nephews Russell and Jill Pilcher, Heather Gooch, Jack and Sheri Holcomb, Amber and Alex Mondragon, Angel and Luke Cain. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Hugh retired from Sears and Roebuck and was an Army Veteran. He was proud to serve his country and worked hard to provide for his family.

Hugh was best known for his humor and love and gave the best hugs. Mary Ann always got the first kiss but he would give loving kisses to those closest to him.

He loved the Lord Jesus Christ and asked Him into his heart as a young boy. Hugh would be the first to pray with you, hold your hand and anoint you with oil and believe with you for healing. He served and worshipped for many years at Mt. Tabor Baptist Church and Freedom Tabernacle. His love of southern gospel had him traveling all over to see his favorite groups and Bill and Gloria Gaither were family even if they didn’t know it. When you came in his home as the music played you would find Hugh raising his hands and tears falling as he worshipped. A special thank you to the angels from Carita’s Hospice Care in Dawsonville.

A funeral service for Hugh Payne will be held on 1 PM Saturday, September 14, at Freedom Tabernacle in Cumming, Georgia, officiated by Pastor Robbie Mathis and Pastor Rick Sefzik. The family will accept visitors at Ingram Funeral Home on Friday, September 13, from 11 AM to 8 PM.