One of the most recognizable faces at the courthouse in Chattooga County is that of Probate Judge Jon Payne.  Payne was first elected as Chattooga County’s Probate Judge in 1974 after he took over from Lan Cordle who was filling in after the former probate judge passed away.  Judge Payne was twenty-five-years-old when he first took office.  At the age of 71, Judge Payne has announced his retirement.

State Senator Jeff Mullis (R-Chickamauga) introduced a resolution to the Georgia State Senate to honor Judge Payne.  The resolution reads:

“WHEREAS, Judge Jonathan Marlin Payne has long been recognized by the citizens of this state for the vital role that he has played in leadership and his deep personal commitment to the welfare of the citizens of Georgia, and
WHEREAS, he has diligently and conscientiously devoted innumerable hours of his time, talents, and energy toward the betterment of his community and state as evidenced
dramatically by his superlative service as the judge of the probate court of Chattooga County, and
WHEREAS, Judge Jon Payne’s service as elections superintendent and assistant magistrate judge is an additional testament to his vision and unyielding commitment to the State of Georgia, and
WHEREAS, he is a person of magnanimous strengths with an unimpeachable reputation for integrity, intelligence, fairness, and kindness, and
WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the outstanding accomplishments and
contributions of this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body recognize and commend Judge Jonathan Marlin Payne for his efficient, effective, unselfish, and dedicated public service to the State of Georgia and extend the most sincere best wishes for continued health and happiness.”

Judge Payne has been the person that people in Chattooga County have seen to settle probate claims over the years. For over four decades the people of Chattooga County have counted on Judge Payne to settle estates, but they also sought his advise on a wide number of topics.  Judge Payne says that the trust the county residents have placed in him has been a “humbling experience.”