George Payne

George Ray “Joe” Payne went to be with the Lord, who he called his Buddy JC, on February 23, 2021.

He was born at home in Madill, Oklahoma on June 7, 1945 to JL and Margaret Payne.  He was raised in Kermit, Texas where he met and married the love of his life, Dixie Martin on January 2, 1963.  They moved to Odessa and raised their three amazing children!

Joe worked for Merchants Motorfreight for over 30 years. He earned numerous safe driver awards and continued to drive trucks for Central & Averitt, until his retirement in 2011.  He enjoyed living his retirement years in Odessa until he and Dixie moved to Winters, Texas in 2017.

He was a devoted husband and an ever-present father, always supporting his children in their various activities and sports.  Joe was something else!!! He was so damn funny (his words not ours) and you knew you were loved by him when he aggravated you!  Just ask any of his 12 grandchildren or 20 great grandchildren, and his numerous nieces and nephews who were greatly “loved” by him.  He was ornery, tough, strong, fearless, loving, kind, funny, loyal, and hard working.

He had the heart of his Heavenly Father and his home was often a refuge for family and friends. His grandsons credit him with their work ethic and helping them to become the men they are today. His granddaughters never grew tired of his silly antics. He loved to laugh and to make others laugh!

Joe is preceded in death by his wife, Dixie Payne; his parents, JL and Margaret Payne; his grandson, Cory Ray Green; his brother, Ronnie Payne.

He is survived by his children, Ronda Gonzales, Karen Green and Joe Payne; his sisters, Margie Sealey, Ruthie Payne, and Mary Payne; and his brother, Johnnie Payne.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, February 27, 2021 at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home with Reverend Dr. Jimmy Braswell officiating.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Caleb Payne, Joshua Payne, Andrew Payne, Brian Payne, Austin Gonzales, Toby Kunkel, Sean Espinosa, and Michael Manley.