Obituary of Jimmy Payne

Jimmy Payne, beloved husband of Joan Smart of Calgary passed away on Tuesday, December 5, 2006 at the age of 67 years. Born to Elmira Payne and Alfonso Best, Jimmy was sponsored for Canadian citizenship by his sister Vivian in 1959, and brother Eric soon followed him. From a start with the Coca Cola Steel Drum Band in Barbados, Jimmy segued to R&B drumming in Canada. His natural ability, particularly the shuffle, was spotted by King Curtis, and soon Jimmy was touring North America, Europe, and the Caribbean. After Curtis’ death, Jimmy moved his son to Calgary and played with many bands and visiting artists, including Albert Collins, Little Milton, John Hammond, and Otis Rush. His proudest accomplishment was raising his son Eric as a single parent, and later helping to care for Eric’s son Tyler in his early years. A courageous battle with Carcinoid Syndrome for the last twelve years provided a chance to connect with family and friends in Barbados and Toronto, and the opportunity to record some great music in his own band, The House of Payne. Of all his bandmates and jam partners too numerous to mention, the family thanks George Taylor and Kris Craig for the House of Payne years, and Ray Lemelin for years of friendship and his work on a soon to be released final recording. Jimmy’s laugh and smile were as big as his indomitable spirit, and all were in fine form for 300 good friends at his surprise 65th birthday party thrown by Bob Richardson and Ray Lemelin Treasured by his wife of seventeen years, Joan Smart; sons, Eric Errol (Calgary) and Terry (Barbados), grandsons Tyler James (Calgary), Terry Jr., Shawn, Dale, Chioke, granddaughter, Tahirah, great-granddaughter Shalissa, great-grandson Nazario (Barbados), and his extended Smart family of Calgary. Jimmy is also survived by his adoring sister Vivian (Kenneth) Nurse and brother Eric (Ekie) Payne. In lieu of flowers, friends, if they desire are encouraged to support Alberta’s musicians with a donation to CKUA Radio in Jimmy’s memory (Rhea March, 1-800-494-2582, ext. 2012). A private family service will be held at a later date. A life lived richly; may all beings be happy. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. Arrangements in care of McInnis and Holloway’s Chapel of the Bells (2720 Centre Street North). Telephone: (403) 276-2296. In living memory of Jimmy Payne, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH Telephone: (403) 276-2296.