Keith Payne coached Andrews, Murphy and Swain County track and field teams
Swain County – Keith Payne, 51, the current Swain County and former Andrews and Murphy track coach, passed away Saturday.
“It is with a heavy heart that we inform you of the passing of a cherished staff member, Keith Payne on Saturday afternoon. Keith was a valuable member of the Swain County School family and a beloved coach and community member,” Swain County Schools said in a statement on Aug. 18.
“We ask that you keep Keith’s family in your thoughts. Coaches and counseling staff have met with current cross-country team members and will be on hand for anyone who needs additional support over the next few days.”
Students, faculty and staff met Monday morning to at the Swain Middle School gymnasium and Swain High School media center to grieve and process Payne’s loss. Counselors and crisis support staff are also on hand for students and staff throughout their first week of school.
The Andrews High School Athletics Facebook page said in a statement, “On behalf of Andrews Athletics, we would like to send out our sincere condolences to the family of coach Keith Payne. Coach Payne impacted so many lives not only in our community but throughout the Smoky Mountain Conference footprint.
“He coached his athletes whether at Andrews, Murphy or Swain County in a way that would give each and every one of them an opportunity to be successful, while helping anyone else that might request his help. Please lift up in your prayers all of those athletes he was coaching at this time, as well as those who he has impacted throughout his lifetime.”
Murphy High School wrote on Facebook, “MHS was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of coach Keith Payne. As a dedicated teacher and track coach, he made a lasting impact on so many lives. His passion for education and athletics inspired students to strive for excellence both on and off the track. Coach Payne’s legacy will live on through the countless individuals he mentored and encouraged.
“Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with each student-athlete and coach Payne’s family during this difficult time. May you find comfort in the cherished memories each of you shared with him and in the knowledge that his influence will continue to resonate for years to come.”
Other conference teams and friends of Payne also posted their condolences on their respective Facebook pages.