Sherman H. Payne was born on Jan. 19, 1924, and went home to be with His Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Dec. 19 in the comfort of his home.

He was 90 years old.

Payne retired in 1978 from Birmingham/Jefferson County Transit Company after an employment of 35 years.

He spent his retirement years hunting, working in his garden and as a Mason.

Payne was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Leola Payne; his parents, Floyd and Lexie Payne; brothers, Clayton Payne, Gene Payne and Charles Payne.

He is survived by his son, Danny (Joyce) Payne; sisters, Judy Divine and Floydean McClain; grandsons, Bruce Payne and Byron Payne, several great grandchildren and great great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Payne was a devout and faithful member of Lime Springs United Methodist Church and served in many official capacities throughout the years, including PPR chairperson, trustee, lay member, and cemetery committee member. He and his wife were faithful in their attendance of annual conferences and were devout supporters of missions. Payne will be truly missed by all who knew him.

Payne’s service of celebration was held at Lime Springs United Methodist Church on Dec. 22 at 1 p.m. His body lay in state one hour prior to the service. Burial followed in the church’s cemetery. Bro. Jim Shannon will officiate. Martin Funeral Home is directing the service. Donations may be made to the Lime Springs United Methodist Building Fund.

The family wishes to express their deepest appreciation to everyone for the kindness shown during the recent illness of Leola and Sherman. A special appreciation to the employees of Southern Care Hospice for both the personal and professional care given.