Albert “Jim” J. Payant, 85, of Greenfield, MA. and formerly of Bernardston, MA. passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 17, 2023, with the love of his family by his side after a brief period of declining health.
Jim was born a son to the late Yvonne (Chagnon) and James A. Payant on December 13, 1937, in Greenfield, MA. He was educated locally at Greenfield High School class of 1955.
After high school, Albert went on to serve in the United States Army National Guard as an Infantryman.
On November 24, 1984, Albert exchanged vows with the love of his life, Diane M. Van Valkenburgh. They had a simple service at the Bernardston Congregational Church in Bernardston, MA.
Jim was formerly employed at Franklin Auto Parts in Greenfield as a delivery and warehouse operator for 8 years until he retired in 2017. Prior, Jim worked for Scape’s Builders as an equipment operator for 6 years in Deerfield, MA. and the Town of Gill Highway Department also as an equipment operator for 15 years in Gill, MA.
Jim enjoyed spending his time racing cars, watching NASCAR, and going to the Monadnock Raceway. He also loved to go camping, playing cards with his neighbors and going to the N. E. Tracks and old Western movies. One thing he loved most was his many dogs over the years.
Jim had a huge generous heart and opened his home to everyone. He was always quick to respond with his hilarious sarcasm to make you laugh. He will be deeply missed by those who were fortunate enough to spend time with him in the garage and at Running Bear Campground which were two places he greatly enjoyed spending time.
Mr. Payant is survived by his wife, Diane Payant of Greenfield, MA. their five children, David A. Payant and his wife, Marcia of Greenfield, MA. Gail M. Bailey and husband, Christopher of Greenfield, MA. Tina L. Hull and her husband Jeffery of Billerica, MA. James J. Payant and his wife, Wanda of Leyden, MA. Laurie A. Mayberry of Gulfport, FL. He is also survived by his brother Robert D. Payant, his 18 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Albert is now at rest with his parents, his brother John A. Payant, and his two grandchildren, Jillian Betters who passed in 2022 and Michael Woods who passed in 1986.
A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, July 1, 2023, from 1:00-5:00 pm at the family’s home. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Dakin Animal Shelter 171 Union St Springfield, MA. 01105, or to the Diabetes Association, 330 Congress St. #501 Boston, MA. 02210. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Home and Crematories, 46 S. Winchester St. Swanzey, NH. 03446. www.cheshirefamilyfh.com.
