It is with great sadness that I share the news of my friend Jimmy Payne's passing. I have been out of town and was just told today, so this information may be a bit out of date.
Jimmy A. Payne, affectionately known by fellow racers as "Georgia Jimmy" and by friends and family as Bubby or Jimmaaay, 63, of Rossville, GA, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. The son of the late Melvin and Elizabeth Payne. He was born on March 2, 1963, in Fort Oglethorpe, GA.
He was a lifelong resident of North GA and a devout Christian. Jimmy loved Dr. Pepper (since his passing, KDP stock has dropped).
Jimmy was a friend to everyone; he loved slot car racing and drag racing. Jimmy was the crew chief for Vick Racing and loved Georgia football. Jimmy was well known for his kind spirit and eagerness to help.
To know Jimmy was to love him; he was always there to give a high five, a hug, or a smile when it was needed most. He will be truly missed and loved by his family and friends but his memory will never fade.
He was preceded in death by Jaxton Whited and Cayleigh Ables Alston.
Survivors include: sister, Kymberly Payne Ables-Ott; niece, Cara (Montague), Eden, Baron, Rowan, and Titus Hicks; nephew, Corey (Candice) Ables, Adilyn, Charlee and Eliana Ables, Bo Hensley and Legend Smith; Michael Alston, Bella-Kate Ables, Londyn and Emmalyn Coats; Aubrey, Coleman, and Eleanor Alston.
Pallbearers include: Sonny Vick, Mason Newby, Casey Thomas, Steve Ault, Corey Ables, and Arthur Blake. Interment will follow in the family cemetery in Trenton, GA.
The family asks that you bring your favorite racing sticker and place it on his casket.
The family will receive friends from 11 AM-3 PM; service to follow at Heritage Sunday, Sept. 13.
