Joseph Hughes Payne, Jr. passed away on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. He was born on January 29, 1948 in Memphis, Tennessee to the late Joseph Hughes Payne Sr. and Bunny (Mangrum) Payne. During his youth he enjoyed playing the piano at church and playing sports. Hugh attended the University of Tennessee after high school graduation. He liked being outdoors hunting, fishing, and hiking. Hugh retired after 25 years from Glory Transportation in Johnson, Arkansas. His jokes, often delivered with a mischievous grin, could sting and tickle in equal measure. Those who knew him well understood that beneath the gruff exterior lay a kind heart and a deep well of compassion.

Hugh is survived by two children, Nicole Fisher and her husband Greg of Germantown, Tennessee and Preston Payne of St. Louis, Missouri; two grandchildren, Parker Shackelford and Buddy Fisher both of Germantown, Tennessee; sister, Linda Beatty of Brandon, Mississippi; nephews and close neighborhood friends.

Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 17, 2024 at Heritage Funeral Home Chapel in Springdale, Arkansas. Private interment to follow in Covington, Tennessee.