JAMES JAY PAYNE ~ Class of 1977
March 22, 1959 - August 2, 2008



James "Jim" Payne, native of Richland died suddenly from a motorcycle accident on August 2, 2008. A permanent resident of the Tri-Cities, Jim left behind innumerable friends, family, and loved ones. He was 49.

Born March 22, 1959, Jim was the eldest of four sons to John and Shirilee Payne of Richland. His brothers included Mike (Amy) Payne of Hawaii, John (Tana) Payne of Richland, and Scott (Carol) Payne of Richland along with numerous nieces and nephews. He attended Christ the King Catholic School in his youth and graduated from Columbia High in 1977. Jim took on his first job at Perkins, serving as the main cook. A year later, he began his career with AREVA (formerly Exxon/Siemens/Framatome). Jim devoted 30 years to the company, working his way up from the commercial conversion area to manager of technical support and maintenance. It was a career he took seriously and devotedly and was looking forward to marking his 30th year with the company this month.

In October of 1979, he married his wife, also his high school sweetheart, Shirley Cluck. They were married for 29 wonderful years and together, have two beautiful children; Ryan (Gretchen) Payne of Pasco, and Amy Payne of Pasco. Jim was also a loving, doting grandfather to Ethan and Leah Payne. Papa was dearly loved!

Jim was always active, both in character and in his life. Some of his favorite activities included a boys trip to Drano Lake with his brothers, father, son, and friends. He enjoyed fishing on his jet boat, golfing, hunting, participating in a bowling league, and riding his motorcycles. Some of his most cherished accomplishments included two 300-perfect games, 4 hole-in-ones, and being an official member of the Harley Club. Of all of his hobbies, there was nothing he wasn't good at. Jim was always the first person to be there when in need. He always took care of his family first and foremost. Jim was a friend to many and beloved by many... giving those who met them a laugh or smile to remember who he was. Jim was someone you could not forget.

A celebration of his life will be held at Christ the King church in Richland, Saturday August 9th, 2008 at 1:00pm, followed by a memory ride in his honor. A reception will be held at Flat Top Park in West Richland starting at 6:00pm. The family wishes to see any and all of Jim's friends!

View/sign guesat book ata Einan's website