Mary Katherine Payne

Mary Katherine “Kay” Payne was a beloved grandmother, mother, and wife during her wonderful 86 years of life. Born in Birmingham, Alabama on December 5, 1937, she lived a full life, raising three beautiful children and two grandchildren, and went to join her Lord and Savior on Thursday, December 21, 2023. Kay was preceded in death by her father and mother, Howard and Lillian Cranford. She is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Dr. Tommy Payne; her children Katherine Payne, Jeff Payne, and Lillian Trombley (David); her grandchildren Thomas Payne and Warner Payne. She also leaves many other family members and lots and lots of dear friends.

Kay attended the University of Alabama and graduated from Samford University where she obtained a degree in Early Education. While working as a secretary at University Hospital, she met her husband, Dr. Tommy Payne, who was working in a laboratory prior to his enrollment in medical school. She was employed as a school teacher, until devoting her life to her spouse and children.

She was an active member of Canterbury United Methodist Church in both the Crawford Owen Bible Class and the Bette Owen Bible Study and as a volunteer to welcome newborns into the congregation. She enjoyed being a member of her book club, her dance group Muses, and the Mopettes (the wives of the Senior Travel Squad). She also loved her traveling adventures with her family, where she especially loved the breathtaking views of the Amalfi coast, Monaco, and Switzerland. Perdido Key was a second home to Kay in the family’s beach condo.

Kay will be remembered for her dedicated faith, her loving nature, and her playfulness. Kay cherished quality time with her friends and family, both near and far. She never met a stranger, greeting everyone she met with a welcoming smile and infectious laugh. An avid reader, bird watcher, and ice cream enthusiast, Kay appreciated the simple pleasures in life and found joy in each day. She never missed an opportunity to sing happy birthday to her loved ones, celebrating as often as she could. Kay will be deeply missed by her friends and family.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, December 28, at 10:00 am at Canterbury United Methodist Church, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 am. A graveside service will take place at 2:00 pm at Oak Hill Cemetery in Jasper, Alabama. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Encore Respite Ministry at Canterbury United Methodist Church 350 Overbrook Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35213, or your favorite charity.