Phyllis Jean Brown Payne 12/28/1943 - 06/12/2026
A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Phyllis Jean Brown Payne, who departed this world on June 12, 2026 at the age of 83. A devoted wife, cherished friend, and the anchor of our family.
Born in Maryville, Tennessee on December 28, 1943 to Charles L Brown and Alma M Murphy Brown, she grew into a woman defined by her boundless warmth, grace, and unwavering devotion. She married James E Payne in 1959 and they celebrated their golden anniversary before he passed away in 2009. She built a life centered around her family and over the years worked at Levi's, BTR, Clayton's and Olympia.
She was frequently described as "precious" by all who knew her. When you consider someone precious, you take care of them, sacrificing anything to make sure they are ok. You put them first, showing them through your actions how precious they are. How lucky we are to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.
She leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love. She is survived by her step-mother Mable Keller Brown; children, Cindi (Steve) Simmons and Janie (Mike) Latham; and her adored grandchildren, Ashley (Nathan) Lane, Lauren (Joe) Penner, Michael (Maddie) Latham and Aaron Simmons; precious great-grandchildren, Blakley and Paisley Lane and Caroline Penner; special godson James Benson; nephews, Andy (Laura) Payne and Eddie Payne; step-brother Carson (Linda) Keller; special family, Joe and Debbie Benson, Susan Payne and Elaine NeSmith. She was preceded in death by husband, James E Payne; mother, Alma (Clay) Trent; father, Charles Brown; beloved friends Lois Buchanan and Joyce Ritter.
Death is not extinguishing the light. It is putting out the lamp because the dawn has come. She was precious to God. He places great value on each, and cares for all. We are His prize. Blount Funeral and Cremation is in charge of the services. She will be interred alongside her husband at Carpenters Campground Cemetery. Graveside services are planned, but details will be announced at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in her name may be made to Butterfly Gap Baptist Church, Widows Fund.
