Patsy Ruth Chastain Payne, 90, of Fort Smith died Wednesday, June 7, 2023, in Fort Smith. Born and raised in Branch, she was a graduate of Branch High School and Draughon's Business College. She retired from Fort Smith Public Schools as an attendance secretary at Northside High School.
She was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church, where she was a charter member of the Clifhangers Sunday school class. She also sang in the choir and played the handbells, as well as the piano for her Sunday school class. She was instrumental in reviving the tradition of handmade Chrismon tree ornaments for the Christmas season. She was an active member of the United Methodist Women, as well as the children’s ministry. She also volunteered for the Community Clearinghouse Meals for Kids backpack program and the Salvation Army Auxiliary.
She is survived by two daughters, Becky Johnson of Fort Smith and Karen Hembree of Rogers; one son, David, and his wife, Donna, of Fort Smith; eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be 4-6 p.m. Sunday at Edwards Funeral Home. Celebration of Life will be 11 a.m. Monday at St. Paul United Methodist Church. Private family burial will be at Roselawn Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul United Methodist Church.
Online condolences may be sent to: www.edwardsfuneralhome.com
