James Michael Payne was born August 4, 1949 in Oklahoma City to Tommy Payne and Marjorie Ann Archer.

He passed away in Wellston May 6, 2015 at the age of 65.

Mike was a 1968 graduate of Wellston High School and member of the Wellston First Baptist Church.

He married Mary Beth Bolin October 29, 1970.

As a career soldier, he served his country proudly with the Air Force from 1968 to 1972 with a tour in Vietnam. Later he continued to serve with the Army from 1975 to 1993 with a tour in Desert Storm and later retirement.

Mike was a member with the Wellston Masonic Lodge, Wellston American Legion Post 160, and had a love of music as a member of the Classic Country Band playing around central Oklahoma.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Tommy and Marjorie; and son, Travis Payne.

Survivors include his wife of 44 years, Mary Beth Payne of the home; sons, Scott Payne of Wellston; Steve Payne and his wife Connie of Wellston; four grandchildren, Scotty, Brittaney, Victoria and Brooke; one great-grandson, Aiden; siblings, Josa Boydston; Tommy Payne and his wife Glenda; Gary Payne and his wife Patsy; Sherry Landrith; Leslie Payne and his wife Estelette; and many other family members and friends.

A funeral will be held at 2:00 Monday, May 11, 2015 at the First Baptist Church of Wellston with full military honors following during the interment at the Wellston Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Lehman Funeral Home of Wellston.