PAYNE

Joyce A. (Bass) Payne, a faithful Christian, loving mother, and devoted grandmother and great-grandmother; went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in The Madison Senior Living Community, at the age of 87.

Born May 31, 1937, in Columbus, Ohio, Joyce was a daughter of Harry and Virginia (Polley) Bass. A 1955 graduate of London High School, Joyce was proud to be the first African American to be selected for the homecoming court. Joyce served as an inspector for the former Ranco Controls in Plain City where she remained until retirement. Never one to stay idle, Joyce was sure to remain very active by volunteering for the Madison County Food Pantry, attending London festivals and parades, supporting the London Red Raiders' athletic teams and bands and visiting with her neighbors. She was a longtime, dedicated member of the St. Paul A.M.E. Church in London where she served as the secretary and treasurer for over 40 years in addition to participating in numerous church clubs and auxiliaries.

Joyce's lasting legacy continues through her daughter Teresa (Curtis) Brooks; grandchildren: Brandi Cain, Angelique Payne (fiancé Brandon Johnson), Ashli Scurry, Alethea Lamberson, Natalie Brooks (fiancé Kenan Mathews), and Grant Brooks; great-grandchildren: Jayvion Stevens (fiancée Makenna Payton), Ariana Arrington, Meila Wilson, and Elijah Johnson; sister Sandra Foster; several nieces and nephews; and son-in-law Ralph Scurry.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Charles "Mousie" Payne; son Chris Payne, daughter Chere Scurry; sisters Gloria Bass and Yvonne Jamison, and brother Harry Bass, Jr.

Joyce's family invites friends to attend a visitation on Friday, February 21, 2025, at First Baptist Church, 250 Toland Street, London, Ohio 43140, from 4:00 – 7:00 PM. A funeral service will be held at the church on Saturday, February 22, 2025, beginning at 11:00 AM with Reverend Melvyn Huguely officiating. Interment will follow in Deercreek Township Cemetery.

Memorials in Joyce's name may be sent to benefit the St. Paul A.M.E. Church Building Fund, 11 West Center Street, London, Ohio 43140.

The EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140, is honored to be caring for the Payne family during this difficult time. Condolences are encouraged to be shared online at www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com.