Ms. Sara Janette Payne, age 66, of Jonesborough, passed away peacefully at the Johnson City Medical Center on July 16, 2023, with her family by her side.

Sara was born on March 8, 1957, to the late Ray H. Payne and Eula Mae White Payne. She was the baby of the family and told everyone “And don’t you forget it.”

She graduated from David Crockett High School in 1975 and attended ETSU.

She began her career at the original Memorial Hospital and helped with the transition to the Johnson City Medical Center where she worked for a total 42 years. While working for the Johnson City Medical Center, Sara made many lasting friendships. Her last position as Payroll Supervisor at Johnson City Medical Center made her known to many. She loved to travel with her mother and carried a tote bag with a patch from every state they visited.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her stepfather, Roby McBride; several aunts, uncles, and four cousins, as well as some dear friends.

Survivors include her brothers, Jerry K. Payne (Connie) and Johnny Payne (Debbie); sister, Debbie Morrison (Stephen); stepbrothers, Roger McBride (Pam), Rick McBride “The Pet” (Nancy), Mark McBride (Karen), Bobby McBride; stepsisters, Sharon Thomas (Roger), Teresa Lyle, Karen Yates; 2 aunts, Blanche Payne and Margaret White; several nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces and great-nephews; special friends, Jim Street, Judy Guarrera, and Robin Broyles Barker.

The family would like to offer their sincere appreciation to the staff of Governor’s Bend Assisted Living in Erwin, TN, where Sara made good friends with several residents. The family would also like to offer their appreciation to the staff of the 4300 Wing at Johnson City Medical Center including the respiratory department, the staff at Unicoi Hospital, and to special friend Mike Stevens and his wife that worked for palliative care at Johnson City Medical Center.

Funeral Services will be conducted at 7:00 PM, Wednesday, July 19, 2023, at Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home with Pastor Josh Grizzle officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, prior to the service. Graveside Services will be held at 10:00 AM, Thursday, July 20, 2023, at New Salem Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Stephen Morrison, Rick McBride, Roger McBride, Mike White, Keith Payne, Steve Broyles, Jimmie White, and Ben Hagy. Honorary Pallbearers are Don White and Kyle White.

The family will receive friends at the home of Johnny Payne, 689 Summit Drive, Jonesborough, TN, preceding and following services.