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James Carter Payne, age 58, of Kalamazoo passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on Friday, April 24, 2020.

Jim was a simple man who loved to rock his crocs and spend time with his family. He enjoyed playing guitar, drinking coffee and playing card games. He took great pride in his family ancestry and researching his roots. He was known by many as Papa or Pops.

He was born July 11, 1961, in Huntsville, Alabama, to the late Carter Alvan and Julia (Gibson) Payne. Jim married Diana Keifer on July 11, 1980, in Kalamazoo. He graduated from Comstock High School as Jim Gibson.

Survivors include his wife of nearly 40 years, Diana Payne 6 children: Luke Joseph (Wendy) Ormanovich, Nanette (Scott) Hatfield, Brian (Sharon) Ormanovich, James (Sara) Payne II, Thomas (Barb) Payne, and Brandon (Jamie) Payne; 22 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; and three new great grand babies on the way. He is further survived by his in laws, Virgil (Elaine) Keifer; sister-in-law, Linda McNett; brothers-in-law, David (Tina) Keifer and Ronald Keifer; and many nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Carter and Julia (Gibson) Payne; siblings, Joan, Theresa, and Linda; nephew, Matt; and Aunt, Dora Gibson (Henry).

He will be loved and missed very much by his family, friends and faithful companion Edgar.

Per Jim’s wishes cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be planned and announced later.

To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Jim’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit www. MichiganCremation.com

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15 Condolences

  1. Christy & Ted on April 29, 2020 at 1:48 pm

    Sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.



  2. Bob Mealey on April 29, 2020 at 1:51 pm

    J. P. Was not only a friend bit a mentor. He taught me alot abot humility and being kind to everyone. To the family I know my path took me in a different direction however I love you all and may God bring you comfort.



  3. Brian cooley on April 29, 2020 at 3:58 pm

    Jim was a great man. He will always walk with the family every day. My eyes and heart are heavy knowing he is gone. Miss ou pops.



  4. Larry and Liz on April 29, 2020 at 5:44 pm

    We were saddened to hear this. He passed way too soon. We know he will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family.



  5. Louann Ormanovich on April 29, 2020 at 6:26 pm

    Diane & Family,
    We cant know why some things happen but love and beautiful memories outlast the pain of grief. Theres a place in our hearts where love lives forever and beautiful can never be forgotten. So sorry for you loss.



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