James "Jim" Payton

James “Jim” Payton of Clanton, Chilton County, Alabama died May 5, 2025. Jim grew up in Clanton, Alabama and graduated from high school in Chilton County.

After completing training in the Air Force, he was stationed in Japan for three years supporting the war efforts in Vietnam and Korea. After military service, he attended Valparaiso Technical Institute in Indiana, where he received a degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

In 1967, he joined The Birmingham News Company and was in charge of the technical part of the operation, the actual printing of the paper. He also represented management negotiating labor contracts. He implemented all the changes involved in computerizing and retired in 2000 after 33 years.

Jim was an avid golfer, actually enjoyed yard work and was proud of his work with the Methodist Men of Clanton First Methodist Church. Most of all he enjoyed going to the beach.

Jim is survived by his wife of 51 years, Wanda; Children, Gayle Payton of Clanton and Dale (Judy) Payton of Birmingham; Step-Children, Kristin Calhoun of Clanton and Tim Reynolds of Chelsea; Granddaughters, Katie and Lauren Payton of Birmingham; Step-Grandsons, Brandon Calhoun of Portland, Oregon, Carter Reynolds and Cole Reynolds of Chelsea; Sister, Gulma (Kenneth) Hudson of Clanton; Along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Luther N and Daisy Wainwright Payton; Brothers, Charles Allen Payton of Clanton and Billy Wade Payton of Birmingham.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 9:00 to 11:00 A.M at Martin Funeral Home Chapel, in Clanton, Alabama.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to your favorite charity or the Clanton First Methodist Church, 207 8th Street N Clanton, Alabama 35045.

Martin Funeral Home directing.

You may leave online condolences for the family on the guest registry at www.martinfuneralhomeinc.com.