MARGARET LAVERNE PAYNE

Margaret Payne, age 73, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, at her home in Globe, Arizona, surrounded by love, family, and a very demanding white cat who considered herself to be the favorite. Her heart—always too big for this world—finally gave out, but not before it gave everything it had to the people and animals she loved.

Margaret was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, and a woman whose strength, humor, and kindness left a lasting mark on everyone she met. She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Ken Payne, who she loved deeply—even if she occasionally reminded him how to do things properly after all these years. Their marriage was a true partnership, full of love, laughter, and just the right amount of lovingly sarcastic commentary.

Together, they raised four children who all inherited her sense of humor, strong will, and talent for talking over each other at family dinners: Jennifer Kinnard (Lee Kinnard), Kenneth Payne Jr. (Delea Payne), James Payne, and Dawn Kephart (Jeremy Kephart); eight grandchildren; and three and a half great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Barbara Ashby, and brothers Richard Culver and John Culver, along with countless friends and extended family, who will miss her dearly.

Margaret was known for her quick wit, warm heart, and ability to make people feel instantly at ease. Whether offering advice; solicited or unsolicited, sharing a story, or giving someone "the look" that said everything without a word, she was a true original. Her love for animals ran deep, and she always made sure the pets in her life were just as spoiled as the people. Her family was her world, and she loved them fiercely and unconditionally.

And anyone who knew her knew about her beloved collection of M&M characters, which decorated her home and brought her far more joy than anyone expected candy-shaped décor ever could. Her collection was a reflection of her playful spirit and love of the little things that make life sweet.

She is now joyfully reunited with her cherished animals—Mocha, Bear, Nakita, Ebony, and Sunkist—who surely greeted her on the other side with wagging tails and joyful hearts.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to be made to the Humane Society, honoring Margaret’s lifelong love of animals — especially the many four-legged friends who kept her company over the years.

Margaret’s legacy of love, laughter, and quiet strength will live on in her family, in the stories that will be told for generations. She will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved.