Gaming community mourns loss of Richmond business owner, influencer

(CONNERSVILLE, Ind.) – The gaming community is mourning the loss of a beloved business owner and social media influencer. 

Jacob Payne owned Retro Jake’s which has locations in Richmond and Muncie. He previously owned a store in Connersville that closed in 2024. 

Payne survived bone cancer in 2010 and had recently shared news of some medical issues he was dealing with. 

Last week, his family announced that he was in the hospital with severe heart failure. 

It was shared this weekend that Jacob had passed away. 

The news has sent shockwaves to those who have visited his stores or followed him on social media. 

Jacob had amassed a large online following with 153,000 Facebook followers and 555,000 YouTube subscribers. 

Greensburg resident Bryce Folsom reviews regional businesses and had visited the Connersville store in 2024. 

Folsom says Retro Jake’s gave him free video games when he had bought consoles from the store. 

“I will always be grateful for that kindness and for all the happy, smiling faces you brought to so many people,” Folsom said. “Your store was part of a video game trail I've been working on for the last three years here in Southern Indiana. Seeing you on your well-loved YouTube channel blew my mind.  I couldn't believe how many people you had reached and inspired.”

Jacob was known for being a great friend, supporting other small businesses, and giving back to others through various initiatives.

He launched a “Console For Kids” initiative with the Richmond Police Department where they delivered video game consoles to Girls, Inc. in Richmond last Christmas. 

Small businesses in Richmond and video game social media accounts from across the country have been expressing their condolences this weekend. 

Last month, Jacob made a video where he professed his faith in God and encouraged others to follow Christ. 

“If you're ever in a situation and don’t know what to do, just give [God] a chance. He will never leave or forsake you, even when you feel like you do the worst of the worst,” Payne said in the video. 

Payne is survived by his wife and young son. The Retro Jakes stores are temporarily closed as friends, family and workers mourn the loss.

You can view Jacob's YouTube page by clicking here.