John Franklin Payne, age 74, was called into the presence of the Lord at 4:06 p.m Tuesday, March 1, 2022, at Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center.

John was born January 27, 1948, in Lima, OH, to Herbert and Martha Belle (Chavis) Payne who both preceded him in death.

John attended Bath High School and proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He had previously worked at Lima Asphalt and together with his brother Art, owned and operated Payne Brothers Construction. John enjoyed shooting pool and was an avid collector. Most of all, John loved and adored his family. He was happiest when they were all together.

He is survived by his significant other, Karen Pittman; five children, John (Mary) Payne of Lima, Stacey (Christopher) Suggs of Lima, Josephine (Bradley) Chaffins of Elkhart, TX, Jessica Payne of Vandalia and Joshua (Beth) Payne of Kinston NC; ten grandchildren, Benjamin Warner, Jerry Mangus, Jessica (Willie) Lymon, Aubree Suggs, Mia Suggs, Katy Chaffins, Ella Chaffins, Tyler Hedges, Nickolas Dalman, and Brooklyn Payne; two sisters, Dora B. Hauenstein, and Helen Beverly Smith both of Lima; sister-in-law, Peggy Payne of Marysville; best friend, Allen May and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He is preceded in death by two brothers, Arthur Payne, Leroy Payne; two brothers-in-law, Earl Hauenstein, Butch Smith; and two nephews, Paul Miller, and Joey Payne.

Funeral services will begin at 2:00 p.m Wednesday, March 9, 2022, at CHILES – LAMAN FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES, EASTSIDE CHAPEL Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery. Military Honors will be provided by the United States Army and VFW #1275.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 8, 2022, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.