Rosemary Payne

Rosemary Gowen Payne, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to many, passed away on March 15, 2025, at the age of 93, surrounded by the love of her family. A lifelong resident of Dallas, Texas, and Highland Park, Rosemary was known for her radiant spirit, boundless kindness, and genuine curiosity about others. She had an innate ability to connect with everyone she met, drawing people in with her beautiful smile, elegance, and open-hearted nature.

Born to Jack L. Gowen and Mary Elizabeth Abernathy in 1931, Rosemary grew up during the Great Depression and this era deeply influenced her values of hard work, frugality, and humility. As a young girl, she attended Ben Milam Elementary and North Dallas High School, where she became a proud cheerleader for the Bulldogs. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and she carried that cheerleading spirit with her to North Texas University. Rosemary’s love for sports and physical activity remained throughout her life. Even in her 80s and 90s, she stayed active, teaching water aerobics and swimming three times a week at the Highland Park YMCA.

In her early adulthood, Rosemary pursued a successful modeling career, earning accolades like Miss Dallas and Cotton Queen in 1953. Her natural grace and beauty made her a sought-after model in Dallas’ most prestigious stores.

It was at the pool where she met Robert Benson Payne, the love of her life. They were married on December 4, 1953, and shared 52 wonderful years together, raising a family that included daughters Trish, Susan, and Kathryn, and son Robert Jr. Rosemary’s family was always the heart of her world. She cherished every moment with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, serving as their mother, friend, and confidante.

Throughout her life, Rosemary was deeply involved in her community. From 1964 to 1970, she co-ran the Lake Sharon Summer Camps, where she taught survival skills and instilled values of faith in countless children. She also played an integral role in the Virginia Slims Women's Tournament in Dallas from 1975 to 1980, alongside her best friend, MS Allison. Her love of horseback riding brought her treasured friendships at the Willow Bend Polo & Hunt Club, and she fox-hunted with the Hickory Creek Hunt Club. Rosemary directed the Willow Bend Summer Camp in the 1980s and '90s, where she helped foster a love for nature, swimming, and horseback riding in children. For 30 years, she served as a food judge at the Creative Arts Cooking Contests at the State Fair of Texas, a position she deeply enjoyed.

An avid polo spectator, Rosemary cheered on her son and grandson with uncontainable excitement. She was a true cheerleader in every sense, offering encouragement and love to all.

Rosemary’s legacy is one of strength, kindness, and devotion. She was a guiding light in her family’s life and a true inspiration to everyone she met. Known for speaking from the heart, she left behind a legacy of warmth and passion for life that will continue to inspire us all.

She is survived by her four children, six grandchildren (one pre-deceased), and three great-grandchildren. Rosemary was deeply loved and will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. We extend our heartfelt thanks to her wonderful & devoted companion and caregiver, Alicia Cavazos, a true blessing whose unwavering love and care brought immense comfort to Rosemary in her final years.

As we say goodbye to our beloved mother, we take comfort in the memory of her radiant smile and the warmth of her voice when she would say, “Hello, this is your mother…” We will carry her with us forever, holding her in our hearts.

A graveside service for family and close friends will be held for her on April 2 at 10:30 AM at Sparkman Hillcrest Memorial Park, Payne Triangle #5, 7405 West Northwest Highway, Dallas, Texas 75225.

A gathering to celebrate Rosemary’s life will follow at 12:30 PM at the Payne home on Armstrong Parkway.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the YMCA Dallas at: https://p2p.onecause.com/ymcadallas2025/donate