Payson Corey George Jr.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Payson George, Jr., “Chuck”, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. He was born on Sept. 16, 1960, in Waterville, to Payson Sr. and Alice (Wilson) George.

He grew up and attended school in Skowhegan, graduating from SAHS in 1979. At an early age, Chuck learned to play the drums and received lessons from his dad and his Uncle Rip. He played in school bands and later played with many different musicians in local bands, such as Homeward Bound and Redline. He also enjoyed time with family and fishing at camp on Parlin Pond.

After high school, he worked in the construction field while continuing his passion for music in local venues. Chuck had an incredible vocabulary and was rarely beaten in Scrabble. He also loved watching football games and was a lifelong Giants fan.

Chuck moved to Jacksonville, Fla., in the ’90s, and there he was known as Payson. He loved living near the beaches and not dealing with the long Maine winters. In addition to pursuing his music, Payson received an associates degree in Nutrition from Florida State College. He also tutored students and gave drum lessons. He continued his love of drumming in Jax with lifelong friend, Stuart Erskine, and other local musicians in the bands Spilljoy and Bluestone. He worked as a music promoter with Farflung Productions until his health declined.

In 2023, he moved to Kingsland, Ga., but stayed connected with many of his Jax friends. He shared a home in Kingsland with long time friend, Sarah Jean Davis, and his favorite cat, Beanbag.

Payson was predeceased by his parents; Uncle Rip and Aunt Marcia George; cousin, AmberAnn George; and lifelong friend, Stuart Erskine.

He is survived by his sisters Karen (Frank) Appunn and Cheryl Staples; cousins Alison (Fred) Hawes and Andrea (Richard) Taylor; nephews Bret, Brian, Donovan, Levi, Andrew and Carl; several grand-nephews and one grand-niece. He also leaves behind his devoted friends George Fleischer and Sarah Jean Davidson-Fraser.

In honor of Chuck, go enjoy some live music!