James Clinton Payne

James (Jim) Clinton Payne, 87, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of devoted military service, unwavering dedication to his family, and a life lived with honor. James was born on January 28, 1939, at Charleston General Hospital in Marmet, West Virginia, to Warner Payne and Oma Browning Payne. He was the youngest of nine children. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Barbara (Mianecki) Payne; his brothers, Frankie, Junior, Ralph, and George Payne; and his sisters, Leoma Payne, Arbutus Blake, Ellen Green, and infant Vera Lee Payne. James proudly served his country for 28 years. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1957 and served in Germany as a Weapons Specialist until his honorable discharge in August 1960. He continued his military career with the New Jersey Army National Guard, serving at the Morristown Armory as a Sergeant, Tank Commander Instructor, Supervisor of Military Support Equipment (MSE), and later with the 250th Signal Battalion at the Woodbridge Armory. He concluded his distinguished military service at the New Jersey National Guard Armory in Plainfield, retiring as a Staff Sergeant (E-6) in January 1999. On June 17, 1961, James married the love of his life, Barbara Mianecki. They met at the Whitehouse Roller Skating Rink in Lebanon, New Jersey. He first saw her in her poodle skirt while he was dressed in his military uniform, and it was love at first sight. Together they built a family and shared many years of marriage in Raritan, New Jersey and upon retirement traveling to their winter home in Eustis, Florida. James is lovingly remembered by his four children: Jonathan Payne, Julie Payne, Jennifer Payne, and Irene (Harmer) Payne. He was a proud grandfather to Sarah Capici, Alyssa Rinaldo, Gregory Harmer, Joseph Capici, and Gabriella Capici. James's life was defined by his patriotism, his faith, his dedication to serving others, and his steadfast love for his family. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, offering kindness and support to anyone in need without hesitation. He was a devoted father and a loyal friend to many, but the title he cherished most was "Poppop." He is deeply loved and will be dearly missed. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. Online condolences may be made through our website, www.crowderhitecrews.com. Crowder-Hite-Crews Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Payne family in local arrangements.