Nancy Lee Payne

Nancy Lee Payne, a loving wife, devoted mother, and cherished grandmother, passed away suddenly on June 17th, 2023, in Las Vegas, Nevada. She was born on July 30th, 1954, in Harrisburg, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, to Lois Gay and Frank Kirsch.

Nancy and her mother left Pennsylvania and moved to Houston, Texas for a few years before they eventually moved to Hollywood, California, seeking new opportunities. Although her childhood was challenging, being raised by a single mother during a time of limited opportunities for women, Nancy persevered with determination and resilience. She rarely spoke of those difficult times but often mentioned the hardships they faced. Nancy’s mother worked hard to provide for their family, and even having grapes in the house was considered a luxury. These experiences instilled in Nancy a strong work ethic and a drive to create a better life for herself.

Education became Nancy’s gateway to a brighter future. Her exceptional intelligence and unwavering commitment to learning propelled her to the top of her class at Hollywood High School. Continuing her pursuit of knowledge, Nancy received an academic scholarship and graduated with distinction from the University of Southern California.

Nancy’s professional journey began as a school teacher in Los Angeles. After a year of teaching, she realized that teaching was not for her. She eventually found her way into a career as a computer programmer, initially at Hughes Aircraft Company and later at the Boeing Company. She thrived in the rapidly evolving world of technology, and her expertise and dedication were instrumental in shaping the field.

While Nancy achieved professional success, her true joy resided in her family and personal interests. She married Michael Costello directly following her college years, and they welcomed their son, David Costello, into the world. After their marriage ended, Nancy met Richard Payne, and they fell deeply in love. They shared a lifetime of adventures, joys, and challenges together. Richard had three children - Brian, Michelle, and Nicole - from a previous marriage, and Nancy embraced her role as their stepmother, raising them as her own with love and compassion.

Nancy had a remarkable range of hobbies and interests. She delighted in experiencing imaginative worlds of role-playing computer adventure games, finding solace and joy in their exploration. Christmas held a special place in her heart, and her home became a haven of enchantment during the holiday season. Nancy meticulously adorned the house, creating magical displays containing villages of little houses that would light up, ice rinks, and all kinds of festive decorations. Her love for the TV show “All My Children” was unwavering, as well as the afternoon soap opera “Dark Shadows”, as she would eagerly rush home after school/work every day to follow the lives of its characters. She enjoyed playing tennis and was really quite good. She also enjoyed going out dancing with her girlfriends. Nancy loved cooking good food and would frequently go out to eat at her favorite restaurants. Nancy also enjoyed cruises, especially to Alaska, savoring the stunning landscapes and the sense of tranquility they offered.

Nancy’s generosity and thoughtfulness touched the lives of those around her. She found profound joy in expressing her love and gratitude through meaningful gifts and acts of kindness. Nancy loved her family deeply. She adored her grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent with them. Her home proudly displayed their pictures, a testament to the deep love she held for them.

In retirement, Nancy realized her dream of a beautiful home in Las Vegas, nestled in a safe and peaceful gated community. There, she meticulously maintained a clean and orderly space, surrounded by the things she loved most. She relished the simple pleasures of wearing a comfy dress, reclining in her favorite chair, sipping a cocktail, and immersing herself in a movie or video game. It was a well-deserved respite after a lifetime of hard work and dedication. Way to go Nancy!!!

At this time, details for Nancy’s memorial service are pending. In honor of her memory, the family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to her favorite charities, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas.

Nancy Payne’s life journey was one of strength, resilience, and unwavering love. She conquered adversity, pursued her passions, and created a haven of love and joy for her family. Her remarkable intelligence, caring nature, and determination left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Nancy’s memory will forever be cherished by her family and friends, as they reflect upon the love and kindness she shared.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Richard Payne; children, David Costello and wife Emilie Woodhead, Nicole Cacek and husband Chris Cacek, Brian Payne and wife Jeannette Payne, and daughter Michelle Payne, who has since passed; grandchildren, Cello and Cadence Costello, Colton and Liam Cacek, and Hunter Payne. Nancy also leaves numerous friends and family in both the Las Vegas and Southern California areas.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmnorthwest.com for the Nancy Lee Payne family.