Big Rapids- James Gordon Payne, 77, of Wyoming, MI, passed away Friday, September 17, 2021, at Spectrum Health Big Rapids Hospital.

He was born April 20, 1944, in Grand Rapids, the son of George and Lillian (Allen) Payne and graduated from Kelloggsville High School in 1963.

James was a licensed contractor doing jobs all over west Michigan. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, and enjoyed spending time with his family.

James is survived by his children, James (Nancy Wolf) Payne, Scott Payne, and JoLinda (John) VerDuin; five grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; his brother David (Mary) Payne; his sister Susanne Green; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by two daughters, Judie and Georgitte Payne, and nine siblings.

A Celebration of James’s life will be held at a later date. Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids.