Obituary: Johnny Andrew Payne, Longtime Arkansas Trucker, Dies at 75

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Johnny Andrew Payne, a 75-year-old resident of Batesville, Arkansas, passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026 at the White River Medical Center. Payne had a long career in the trucking industry, working for several companies in Arkansas before retiring. He is survived by his son, two daughters, two sisters, four grandchildren, and his beloved dogs Bear and Trinity.

Why it matters

Payne's obituary highlights the life and career of a hardworking Arkansan who spent decades in the state's trucking industry, an important part of the local economy. His story reflects the experiences of many long-haul and short-haul truck drivers who have kept goods moving across Arkansas over the years.

The details

Payne began his trucking career at JMI in Batesville and later worked for J-Mar Trucking in Searcy, making short runs for Tharp Pallet Company in Floral before retiring. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Cathy, and a son Andy. Payne is survived by his son Jonathan, daughters Chasity and Shelly, two sisters Cordella and Barbara, four grandchildren, and his two dogs Bear and Trinity.

• Payne was born on August 15, 1950 in Paragould, Arkansas.
• Payne passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026 at the White River Medical Center in Batesville.
• Payne's private graveside service will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at the Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Batesville.