Payne Shanafelt

May 3, 1993 - August 18, 2014

Payne Gaston Shanafelt, age 21 of Brentwood, passed away August 18, 2014. Payne was born May 3, 1993 in Memphis, TN and was the son of Paul Max Shanafelt and Gay Gaston Shanafelt. He went to college in West Virginia with a football and baseball scholarship but decided to follow his passion to become a welder. He was currently employed with Nashville Fabrication & Engineering where he was a valued part of their team. His co-workers were like family to him. Payne is best described by the words of his father, "A unique name for a unique person." He found his greatest joy, peace and connection to his Creator when he was outside in nature, especially when hunting. He was a true sportsman who enjoyed golf, baseball and football. He was looking forward to learning about rock climbing and he loved to hike. Payne's amazing smile and unwavering commitment to friendship will be missed. Shortly after his death he was remembered on Facebook as a "genuine friend" to others. As a member of First Presbyterian Church he participated in mission activities as a way to minister to the needs of others. He will be remembered as a wonderful son, brother and grandson who liked to "sing in the car with his mom or hunt and play a round of golf with his dad." In addition to his parents Paul and Gay Shanafelt of Brentwood, he is survived by his sister: Jordan Paige Shanafelt (Matt) Williams of Franklin; grandparents: John & Carolyn Gaston, Sr. of Summerfield, FL; aunts and uncles: John & Janet Gaston of Tupelo, MS, David & Stephanie Simms of Oxford, MS and Shane Blackwell, of Bakersfield, CA; as well as several cousins. Pallbearers will be Eric Powers, Drew Hawken, Frank Kennedy, Ryan Bednar, Taylor Minor, Tyler Stewart and Jonathan Woodard. Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, August 23 at 2:00 PM at First Presbyterian Church, 101 Legends Club Lane, Franklin, TN 37069. Services will be officiated by Reverend Christopher A. "Chris" Joiner. The family will visit with friends at the church on Saturday from 12:00 noon until the service at 2:00 PM. The family requests that in lieu of flowers memorial donations be made to TN Wildlife Federation to benefit TN wildlife and its habitat, at https://www.tnwf.org/donate, or First Presbyterian Church in Franklin. Heritage Funeral Home of Franklin is assisting the family with arrangements.