Kathy Payton

Kathy Eileen Payton 77, of Antwerp passed away at home surrounded by her family on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.

She was born in Plymouth, IN on October 3rd, 1948 to Robert B Rice and Eileen E (Shedrow) Rice. She graduated from Antwerp High School in 1966 and Ravenscroft Beauty College in 1967, later working as a Beautician for many years. Kathy was married June 7, 1969 to Jack “Shorty” Payton for 33 years.

Kathy was one of the few original members of The First Baptist Church in Antwerp serving the Lord as a Treasurer, Sunday School Teacher, Youth Leader, and WMU leader faithfully for many years.

Kathy enjoyed researching Genealogy. She was a member of the Warren County Pennsylvania Historical Society, Daughters of Liberty of Corydon, Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Genealogy Historical Society to name a few.

Kathy used her creative talents as a Co-Owner of “Bunnie & Co.” with her friend, Sue Getrost where her creations were placed in many stores throughout the United States such as “The Rustic Hutch.” Kathy was well known for her talent in the kitchen and later used that talent opening “ KD’s Kitchen.” with her friend, Dolly Wann.

Kathy enjoyed traveling with a close circle of friends to Pennsylvania making many memories. She will be remembered by her family and friends for her Love for Elvis, her Christmas Cookies, playing games with her sister Nanci, family shenanigans, memories, traditions, and trips with her friends. Most importantly she will be remembered for her strong unwavering faith in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Kathy will be missed by her surviving brother, Bill (Raycene) Rice of Rutledge, TN; her son, Robert (Dawn) Payton of Antwerp, OH and daughters Kari (Dan) Hake of Ft. Wayne, IN and Kelly Payton of Antwerp, OH; grandchildren, Justin, Cade, Kylee (Josiah), Dalton, Elicia, Wade, Katelynn (Jason), Cole, Brett, Elle, Samantha, Kylee, and Emylee; great-grandchildren, McKenna, Mallory, Oliviah, Oliver, Atlas, Leo, and one on the way.

Preceding her in death is her parents, and sister, Nanci Coil.

To honor Kathy's wishes and her family's request she will be laid to rest privately at a later date in Maumee Cemetery, Antwerp.

Her family wishes to express their deepest thanks for the encouragement and loving support that the Community Health Professionals staff, Nurse Ashley, & Nurse Tomi provided when needed to their mother, Kathy.

Memorial contributions may be made to Community Health Professionals, 250 Dooley Drive, Paulding, Ohio 45879.

Fond memories may be shared at dooleyfuneralhome.com