Jonathan (JP) Wilks Payne was born on November 30, 1966 to Alva Morris Payne and Betty Moore Payne. He died on June 17, 2026.

He is survived by his brother, Todd Payne and wife Amy Payne, and his nephews and nieces, Julie Stewart, Christine Royals Walker, Erika Royals, Thomas Royals, Zach Royals, Adeline Payne, Mary Peyton Payne, Tyler Stewart, Trent Stewart, and Jon Michael Payne.

He leaves behind two children, Sarah Kathryn Payne Lemoine and husband Steve Lemoine, and Spencer Payne.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Ted Payne, sister, Debbie Payne, and his parents, all of whom he loved dearly.

JP attended Louisiana Tech University and was a proud member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. He made many lifelong friends while there.

JP never met a stranger. He made friends with everyone from the clerks at convenience stores to the dry cleaner he frequented weekly. Although he encountered some struggles throughout his life, his family is grateful for the time and memories of him during these last few months. These memories will not be forgotten.

They are thankful for the care and support his brother Todd showed throughout JP’s life.

He was eternally proud of his two children and the miracle of his new grandson, Frederick Paul Lemoine.

JP lived large and had fun. The family would like to remind everyone that his motto was always “everybody just maintain”.

In times like these, that seems especially fitting.

“Be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32