Lee Payne and his family were regulars at the End of the Pavement

Lee Payne was a regular at the End of the Pavement.

Lee, James, and Linda lived nearby. We saw them a lot through the week or in the mornings when things were quiet.

James, Lee, and Linda

Lee's son James was a character. He was a smart guy but was usually half drunk when I saw him. No matter how high he got, he was always polite and respectful.

One time James was in a wreck on Owltown and walked all they way home to Mulky Gap. Instead of staying on the roads -- where someone could help or give him a ride -- he hobbled miles through the woods with broke ribs and his clothes soaked in blood.

I bet Linda had a time cleaning up her brother when he got home looking a mess. James, like most of the other men, did not like emergency rooms or doctor visits. He was tough as nails.

Lee's son and daughter were both talented musicians and used to play for us every now and then. If a lot of cars started pulling in, they would pack up and leave. I guess they did not like crowds.

I loved to hear Linda sing -- she sounded better than most famous singers around today.

Lee in his back yard

I took some pictures and did a human interest story about Mr. Payne when I worked at the newspaper. Read it at Lee Payne -- North Georgia News.

Lee Payne

Lee Payne worked on a farm as a boy, and for the Civilian Conversation Corps in his teenage years. In the 1940's he worked at a saw mill. Then he worked in downtown Blairsville for many years at Roger's Grocery Store.

After that, Payne worked at Kelly Brother's Lumber and then at Wilco Farms for 21 more years. He was employed by the Union County for four years.

After he turned 55, he worked as an older American for the Forest Service. Later he helped George Upchurch at Mt. Brook Nursery.

He finally retired in August 2004 at age 83.

The house was built in 1930 and Lee bought it in 1950.

Lee said, "This sturdy, old house will still be standing long after I am gone."