Former Surry Community College Athlete Jody Payne Passed Away, Leaving His 2 Children, Morgan and Matthew
Jody Payne helped a young athlete through his guidance, his calls on the field, and his unwavering presence.
NewsAshishJanuary 12, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on January 12, 2026
Jody Payne, a former student athlete from Surry Community College, passed away unexpectedly on January 10, 2026.
He played football and baseball.
Jody Payne will be remembered for his love of sports and his community.
He graduated from Surry Central High School and attended Surry Community College. He was a proud alumnus and a great teammate on the football and baseball fields.
Sports were about more than competition for Jody Payne, and he genuinely loved the game.
He supported young athletes, serving as a coach, an encouraging fan, and a dedicated umpire for local teams, including Post 123 American Legion Baseball, for many years.
Furthermore, Jody was a skilled craftsman and worked as a CNC Machinist at Reynolda Manufacturing Solutions. Later, he ran his own woodworking business in 2010.
Rest Easy, Blue! You will be missed, Jody Payne! Thank you for the many years of service to youth baseball and the many lives you touched! Thank you for loving the kids and loving the game 💙
Surry County Cal Ripken BaseballAlso, see: Baseball Coach and Umpire Kirk Luther Passed Away, Leaving His Legacy of Fairness and Friendship
Coach Jody Payne’s Legacy of Generosity Lives On
Jody Payne was a devoted father, a steadfast supporter of his community’s youth, and a man whose life was measured in stories and kindness.
Sadly, he left a legacy of generosity and quiet dedication.
Jody Payne was the son of the late Dorothy Payne, born in Dobson, North Carolina.
He was a family man, survived by his former wife, Mercie Payne, and their two children, Morgan and Matthew Payne.
He taught his son to play baseball, instilling the values of discipline, teamwork, and joy in the effort. Moreover, he was always giving his time and unwavering support to young athletes.
Matthew, Morgan, and I would like to open our home to anyone that would like to visit and share memories and stories of Jody. The kids have enjoyed the stories, friends, and family have told this week. Thank you for all the prayers and positive thoughts sent our way.
Mercie PayneIn his final year, Jody resided at a hospice home, facing the end of his journey with the same grace and awareness with which he lived.
He was preceded in death by both his mother and his grandson, Coleson Grey Payne, who was born sleeping on May 23, 2026.
Everyone who knew him has “100 Jody Payne stories.” His spirit of a helping hand, a word of encouragement, a shared laugh, or a quiet moment of support will continue to resonate.
The Payne family will soon announce a memorial service to celebrate the life of Jody Payne.
He will be profoundly missed, but the volume of stories he leaves behind ensures he will never be forgotten.
Rest In Peace, Jody Payne.
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AshishAshish Maharjan, author at Players Bio, has been covering news with a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling. A writer with a passion for capturing the essence of athletic competition.
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