Mary Payne

Mary Ellen “Sis” Payne

January 21, 1943 – October 24, 2025

Mary Ellen Payne, affectionately known as “Mama” “Sis” , and “Granny” was born on January 21, 1943, in Norfolk County, Virginia. She peacefully entered eternal rest on October 24, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family, at the age of 82.

Mary was the beloved daughter of the late David Potts and the late Beatrice Potts-Hunt. She experienced the loss of her father in World War II during her early childhood, and her mother later preceded her in death in 2004. She was united in marriage to the late Charles Payne, Sr., who passed away in 1993. She was also preceded in death by her youngest son, Donta Payne, in 1991.

Mary dedicated many years of faithful service as a food service worker at Southwestern Elementary School in Chesapeake, where she retired in 2019. She was admired for her warm heart, strong work ethic, and her devotion to nurturing others. Her passion for cooking and her generous spirit brought joy to countless people throughout her life. She took great pride in serving others and making sure everyone felt cared for.

Though gentle and soft-spoken, Mary possessed a quiet strength that spoke volumes. Her love was evident not only in her words but in every action, she took, always leading with compassion, kindness, and grace. She cherished life’s simple joys: spending time with her loved ones, preparing meals from the heart, and caring for others in any way she could.

As “Granny,” her love extended far beyond her immediate family. Many were blessed to be embraced as family through her warmth, hospitality, and affectionate smile. She had a remarkable gift for making others feel welcome and loved.

One of the most special relationships in Mary’s life was the deep and sacred bond she shared with her granddaughter, Tashunia, whom she lovingly raised as her own. Their relationship was built on unconditional love, guidance, and laughter. To Tashunia, she was more than a grandmother — she was a mother, a confidant, and her greatest source of comfort and strength. Their unbreakable connection was a true reflection of Mary’s heart: selfless and nurturing spirit. God entrusted Mary with this cherished role, and she embraced it with grace and joy. The love they shared will forever be a reminder that family is not only defined by birth, but by the love that binds souls together.

Mary was a member of Little Zion Baptist Church, proudly serving in the Usher Ministry. The foundation of her faith and spirit is reflected in this scripture, “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”

Her legacy of love continues in the hearts of those she leaves behind: her siblings, Alfreda Lambert and Marion Potts; her daughters, Roxanne Potts, Shelly Potts, and Charyl Payne; her sons, Daryl E. Potts, Sr. (Rene’), Charles Payne, Jr., and Lionell Payne; along with her cherished grandchildren (18), great-grandchildren (36), great-great-grandchildren (1), nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Mary will be forever remembered for her kindness, generosity, and the enduring love she shared with everyone blessed to know her.

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