A Northeast Georgia family is mourning the tragic loss of a brother and son. 56-year-old Jason Keith Payne was killed Saturday when a tree fell onto his vehicle while traveling near Lula.
Payne, of Carnesville, was pronounced dead at the scene. His mother, Betty Butcher, confirmed the heartbreaking news in a public statement released Saturday after being informed of his death.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts a mother can possibly bear to report the death of my youngest child today,” she wrote. “We were told that his death was instantaneous, for which I am extremely grateful.”
Payne was employed by Kubota. He is one of two people killed in the South as a result of severe weather on June 7. The other fatality occurred in Lafayette, Mississippi, where a man also died when a tree fell on his vehicle.
In a follow-up message, Payne’s family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of kindness shown in the wake of Payne’s passing.
“Our hearts are overflowing with love and appreciation for every kind word, thought and prayer offered up on his behalf,” Butcher wrote. “We face a long road ahead and will continue to need your prayers. We know where Jason is, and that gives us peace. God bless you all.”
Jason Payne is survived by his mother, wife, Wanda Payne of Carnesville, three daughters and five grandchildren. Funeral services have not yet been announced.
