Independent Insurance Agents at Payne Insurance Agency: Meet Our Team
Scotty Abercrombie
Scotty Abercrombie, alongside his wife Karla, proudly carries on the Payne Insurance Agency legacy built on the values established by Karla’s father, Karl Payne. With deep family roots in Ellijay, Scotty has devoted his life to serving this community, building lifelong relationships with clients who quickly become friends and neighbors.
Insurance isn’t just Scotty’s profession—it’s his passion. Having worked in the agency since his teenage years, Scotty brings more than 30 years of hands-on experience and an unmatched knowledge of the ever-changing insurance market. His approach is always guided by honesty, integrity, and a true commitment to doing what’s best for his clients. Scotty is dedicated to helping you protect what matters most.
Outside of work, Scotty and Karla are devoted animal lovers who consider their pets part of the family. They also share a love for travel and take every opportunity they can to explore new places together.
Our Team
Lauren Sisson
For more than 15 years, Lauren Sisson has been an essential part of the Payne Insurance Agency team. With over 20 years of experience in the independent insurance market, she specializes in commercial and business insurance, offering clients the expertise and guidance they need in today’s ever-changing marketplace. While commercial coverage is her specialty, Lauren is also highly knowledgeable in personal lines.
Above all, Lauren is a proud mom who puts her family first. She balances her career with dedication while never missing a moment to be their #1 fan! A proud North Georgia native, Lauren, her husband, and 4 children are active in the community and passionate supporters of the Gilmer Bobcats! On a small town Friday night, Lauren and her family can be found cheering & wearing purple & white! Lauren uses her knowledge along with a personal commitment to her clients, making sure every business and family she serves has the protection they need. Lauren is here to assist you and your family!
Jessica Bunch Johnston
Johnston has been a valued part of Payne Insurance Agency for more than 10 years, bringing over 25 years of experience in the independent insurance market. A lifelong Ellijay resident with family roots that run deep in the community, Jessica has been passionate about insurance since graduating from the University of Georgia. She specializes in personal auto and homeowners insurance, taking the time to help each client find the coverage that best fits their needs.
Jessica is known for her patience and thoughtfulness in assisting every client. Outside the office, she and her husband enjoy wearing red and black & cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs—the team that first brought them together at the University of Georgia. Jessica looks forward to serving both long-term clients & new ones in the years to come.
Jamie Kerr
Payne Insurance Agency is thrilled to welcome Jamie Kerr to the team as our Client Specialist Representative. A lifelong Ellijay native with deep family roots in the community, Jamie brings the perfect blend of positivity, knowledge, and dedication to serving clients. Whether greeting you at the office or assisting you over the phone, Jamie is committed to making sure every client feels welcome and connected with the right agent for their needs.
Jamie is not only a valuable part of the Payne Insurance team but also a familiar and trusted face in the Ellijay community. He and his wife are the proud parents of two young children, and Jamie devotes himself to being the best husband and father he can be. On Sundays, you’ll often find him sharing his love for God and knowledge of the Bible. With his genuine care for people, Jamie looks forward to welcoming clients into Payne Insurance—and chances are, he’ll become a friend along the way.
Anita Turner
Anita Turner is approaching her five-year anniversary with Payne Insurance Agency and has quickly become a valued member of the team. Born and raised in Ellijay, Anita was warmly welcomed back to her hometown community. She brought with her a passion for helping others, along with the intelligence and dedication that have made her a trusted advisor for clients seeking personal insurance coverage. Today, Anita writes all lines of personal insurance, guiding clients with care and professionalism.
A proud graduate of the University of Georgia, Anita is a loyal Bulldog fan who enjoys cheering on her team in red and black. She is also an active supporter of the 4-H Club, reflecting her love for community involvement. Anita considers her greatest accomplishment to be her son, which is now graduating from College. Anita and her husband are grateful to call Ellijay home, and she looks forward to continuing to serve and grow the clients who rely on her for their insurance needs.