Robert Jefferson (Bab) Payne, 90, of Hartwell, GA died peacefully surrounded by family on May 21, 2023 after a recent heart attack and short hospital stay. Bab was born February 23, 1933 in Clayton, GA to Jesse Lucille Burton and William Robert Payne.

He graduated from Toccoa High School and then served four years in the U.S. Navy. After his service in the Navy, Bab attended Piedmont College. He was a former manager of Toccoa Tire and Recapping in Toccoa, GA and then moved to Hartwell where he was owner and manager of Hartwell Tire and Recapping. Later, he worked at Gold Kist and the Hartwell Golf Club.

Bab was a generous person with a big heart who never met a stranger. He led a very active life and enjoyed gardening, woodworking and lending a helping hand to friends and family. He was involved for years with Lions Club, youth sports, HCHS Booster Club and delivering Meals on Wheels. He loved playing golf until his knees told him he had to stop. He enjoyed watching golf and cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs and the Atlanta Braves.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mimi Prickett Payne. They were married for 62 years and spent many happy years raising their kids in the Reed Creek community. They are former members of Reed Creek Baptist Church and are current members of Hartwell First United Methodist Church.

Bab is survived by his brother Thomas (Mary) Payne of Cumming, GA and sister, Betty Harrison of Toccoa, GA. He is preceded in death by his sister Sara Corley and his brother Jim Payne. He is also survived by his son, Todd Payne (Susan) of Avondale Estates, GA and daughter, Laura Barroso (Jeff) of Knoxville, TN. He adored his grandchildren, Parks Barroso (Evie) of Denver, CO, Maya Barroso of Nashville, TN and Sam Payne of Avondale Estates, GA.

A celebration of life will be held on June 11, 2023 at 2:00pm at Hartwell First United Methodist Church, with a reception to follow at Hartwell Golf Club. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hartwell First United Methodist Church, 200 E. Howell Street, Hartwell GA 30643.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is in charge of all arrangements.