By Karen Middleton
After nearly three years as chief executive officer of Athens-Limestone Hospital, Cary Payne will retire at the end of the year.
Payne confirmed his plans Thursday, saying he had told the hospital board of them about six weeks ago.
Payne came to Athens-Limestone in 1996 to be assistant administrator, eventually becoming chief operating officer, a position he held for eight years before being named CEO in January 2007.
“This is my second retirement,” Payne said. “I spent 22 years in the military.”
During those 22 years, Payne, who was commissioned as a Medical Service Corps officer in the Army, worked as a company commander, human-resource director and administrator from combat-support hospitals to medical-research institutions to an academy in San Antonio. He holds master’s degrees in health care management and health care administration.
“I want to spend more time with Lisa and our families,” Payne said.
Payne is married to the former Lisa Carter, who is employed at Athens State University.
“Lisa still has a few years to work,” he said. “I got the opportunity to retire and do some things I’ve wanted to do for quite a few years.”
Payne said he hopes to do a lot of traveling throughout the United States.
He said the hospital is interviewing candidates for his replacement.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at Athens-Limestone Hospital,” he said. “It’s a great community hospital and they do a great job. That part I will miss.”
