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Submitted: 5/6/09 • Approved: 10/25/11 • Last Updated: 8/2/12 • R189790-G0-S3
Apr 19, 1882 - Nov 25, 1944
William Mitchell Payne is the son of John Preston Payne and Mary Elizabeth "Mollie" (Taylor) Payne
Body of Norfork Man Drowned Nov. 25th
Recovered Sunday
The body of Mitchell Payne who was drowned in White River at Norfork Nov. 25 was found Sunday three miles below Norfork at Herron Switch by small boys playing by the river bank. The arm of the body had caught on a limb hanging in the water.
A coroner's inquest brought in a verdict of accidental drowning and there was no indication of foul play. According to Sheriff Ernie Gentry fifty dollars that Payne had on his person was recovered.
The accident occurred when Payne, age 62, and his son Elmo were crossing the river to the younger Payne's home. The boat upset and the father was unable to fight the strong current to get to the shore.
Funeral services were held at the Church of Christ at Norfork by the Rev. Gravin, Feb 13. Burial was at Galatia Cemetery.
He is survived by his wife, four sons, Austin of Oak Ridge, TN; Elmo of Norfork; Dumas who is now in the service in Belgium and Otto Payne of OK; and by three daughters, Mrs. Thelma Horton, Mrs. Florine Perry and Miss Volta Payne, all of Oak Ridge TN. He also has three brothers, Monroe, of Washington, DC; Preston of Bryon and a sister Mrs. Ollie Boyd, all of Tulsa, OK and by thirteen granchildren.
The Adams Funeral Home was in charge.
Contributed on 5/6/09
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Record #: 189790