Michael Ashley Payne

April 14, 1971 - April 24, 2022

Beloved and devoted husband and father, master chef and avid fisherman, Ashley Payne’s love of life didn’t come to an end with his death. His love of family life and hilarious story telling prowess are branded on the hearts and souls of his family and friends. Ashley went home to Jesus on April 24, 2022, at the age of 51 after a sudden stroke and battle with the aftereffects. He was surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest. Ashley went to the University of Georgia and studied biology prior to completing his Culinary Arts degree at the Culinary Arts Institute of Atlanta. After a stint at the Ritz Carlton followed by his own restaurant venture - The Mill Street Café, he settled into executive chef positions at several country clubs and Assisted Living facilities. Ashley always found a way to be with family whether it was Carter’s baseball endeavors or Abby’s volleyball adventures, trips to the beach or just being with the family to have fun. He was a truly dedicated father and husband. The simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to Ashley. He loved time with the kids, evenings out to dinner with friends, fishing … anywhere anytime, and hunting with his buddies. Ashley had an uncanny ability to keep everyone in the room laughing. He is survived by his wife, Lori, children Carter and Abby, Mom & Dad; Pam and Al Otto, Father-in-Law: Harold McDurmon, Grandmother: Peggy Christopher, Sister-in-law and husband: Lisa & Darrin Johnson and daughters Jessica Miro and Megan Johnson and Brother-in-law: Alan McDurmon & family.