Grace Marion Payne

Grace M. Payne passed away July 15, 2012 at Crista Nursing Center where she had resided since January 2011. Mom was born April 13, 1913 in Aberdeen, WA to E.L. and Myrle Merrill. The family moved to the warmer climate of Yakima, WA in 1920.

Grace married her Grandview High School sweetheart, Ken Payne on October 11, 1936 in Spokane, WA. They moved to Seattle in 1940 and to Edmonds in 1945.

She was a member of Analia Chapter Order of Eastern Star and served as Worthy Matron and Mother Advisor for Rainbow. Mom was also a member of Edmonds United Methodist Church.

In 1956, Grace was asked by Don and Ethel Brown of Brownie's Cafe to "come make pies for us". That work description expanded in "short order".

A wonderful cook and homemaker, mom also loved her family, friends and garden. Having played basketball and softball, she remained a sports fan. But, of course, Ken and Grace fished the waters of Puget Sound, Neah Bay and La Push. Mom landed a 48 pound king salmon - we have a picture!

Mom was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Kenneth Payne; sister, Elizabeth (Betty); and brother, Delbert.

She is survived by her daughters, Linda Calhoon (George), Nancy Winston, Janice Rinehart (Jim); six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; two great-great granddaughters, cousins, David Merrill, Redmond, Colleen Shumway, Guala, CA; and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests donations to Fire District 1 Foundation, PO Box 12915, Everett, WA 98206-2915.