James Wesley Payton

James Wesley Payton lost a hard-fought battle with glioblastoma brain cancer on Saturday, March 28, 2015. His soul is in the Father's hands now, where he rests free from his mortal body and the cares and troubles of this world. Wes was born September 12, 1977 in St. George, Utah to Harold Thomas and Teresa Ann (Rogers) Payton. He attended Springville High School and graduated from Pine View High in St. George. He attended taxidermy school as well. He lived a full life, having been blessed with being able to do all the things he loved--hunting, fishing, hiking, 4-wheeling, horn hunting, anything outdoors. Wes did concrete work, tile work and was a hunting guide at Three Forks Ranch near Craig, Colorado. He loved helping others fulfill their dream hunts. He guided professional athletes, politicians and lots of fun, interesting people, and was featured on "Bushnell's Secret of the Hunt." He loved to learn new things and was always tinkering around, designing new gadgets. His 2 children, Kaden Aaron and Dakota were the loves of his life. He was so very proud of them. Wes was welcomed in heaven by his father, brother, Aaron Payton, grandfathers Eugene Hogue and Harold I Payton, aunts Vicki Patrick and Betty Hogue and cousin, Amanda Payton. He is survived by his children, his mother, sisters Sarah Ann (Russell) Syddall and Katelyn Marie (Desmand) Felshaw, grandmothers Avon Payton and Maria Hogue, uncles James Hogue, Richard and Doug Payton, aunt Kitty Hirschi, 9 cousins and many nieces and nephews. Thanks to Southwest Cancer Clinic, Dr. Brian Tudor, Shawnee, Anna, Laurie and all the staff for their care and genuine concern; also to IHC Hospice--especially Sally, Denise and Sheila. Jason Campbell, Wes's cousin and good bud, thank you for being there and for all your help. Lastly, but certainly not least, thanks to my family the Fosters, VonCannons Shelleys, Edwards, and Atkins for your loving support through this long, difficult journey. It would have been impossible without you and without the patience and support of my coworkers. Kim Graad, you were always there for Wes. Rest in peace, Wes, and soar free. We will miss your generosity and great smile. There will be an open house celebration of his life for his friends and family on Wednesday, April 1, 2015 from 6:00-8:00 at the Staheli Family Farm Barn, 3400 S. Washington Fields Rd., Washington, Utah. Arrangements are under the direction of Heideman Hughes Mortuary 435-674-5000.