Joe Payton, Jr.

Joe Payton, Jr., Age 70 of LaGrange, passed away on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Baptist Health LaGrange Hospital with his family by his side. Born on Tuesday, May 10, 1955, he was the son of the late Joe Payton, Sr. and Rose Mildred (Preston) Payton. He worked for Ledco in Shelbyville for over 15 years. A former resident of Pleasureville, Joe was heavily involved in the Pleasureville Volunteer Fire Department, helping his fellow neighbor as a firefighter and EMT. An avid sports fan, he enjoyed playing football and softball, as well as cheering on the University of Kentucky Wildcats. On August 17, 1996, he married his love, Theresa Gayle Payton, who preceded him in death just two months ago. Together they shared a blended family full of love and made many great memories traveling to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg annually. His marriage to Theresa gave him wonderful in-laws, Donna and Jessie Nation, with whom he enjoyed playing cards with. He enjoyed listening to music of all genres and spoiling his beloved dogs, Asparagus, Ziggy and Daisy. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his sister, Elizabeth Payton and brother Calvin Payton.

He is survived by his three daughters, Tawnja Morris of Pleasureville, Beth Newton of Sulphur, and Alexandria Payton of Louisville; a son, Jessie Payton of LaGrange; Grandchildren, Christopher and Kylee Morris, and Zackery and Zayden Newton; sister, Emma Jean Herrell of Frankfort; and a brother, Josh Payton of Frankfort.

Funeral Services will be conducted at 7 PM on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at Beckley Funeral Home with Reverend Joey Woods Officiating. Following the funeral service Joe will be cremated. Visitation will be held from 4 PM until the time of service on Thursday, October 9, 2025. To honor Joe’s life and to help his beloved family memorial contributions may be made to Beckley Funeral Home to assist with Funeral expenses. With Care and Professionalism, arrangements are under the direction of Beckley Funeral Home.