Emma Keaton Payne

Mrs. Emma Ruth Payne was born to the James and Edith "Honey" Keaton in Bainbridge, Georgia. After graduating from Hutto High she relocated to South Florida with her husband, Leon Payne. Six children were born to their union, five boys and one girl. They desired a safer and more peaceful surrounding to raise their children, so they moved to Tallahassee, Florida.

While living in South Florida she embarked upon a successful lifelong journey as a Unit Secretary. The profession was exciting and challenging, but Emma rose to the occasion by keeping it classy, professional, and always a straight shooter; meaning she did not bite her tongue. In the end, she was rewarded for her ethics and hard work.

In Tallahassee, she worked at Capital Rehab then transferred to Health South. She was a true gem and was greatly loved by staff, patients, and co-workers. While there, she was one of the best Unit Secretaries, as evidenced by receiving Employee of the year in 2005. In 2018 she retired to enjoy the fruits of her labor. 

Emma was a member of Tabernacle Missionary Church. There she served on the Outreach Ministry and the Senior Ministry Board.

Emma was a daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, employee, friend to many, and most of all "a servant of the Lord". 

Those who will forever cherish her love and legacy include her Husband: Leon Payne; their Children: Jerry Lee (Shelia) 5 children; Kenneth Leon (Sheena) 5 children; Deena Nicole (Donald Hensil) 6 children; Raymond (child deceased); Andre' Kevin, 3 children and Jonathan Allen (Mary) 6 children; Siblings: Katheryn Lester; Betty (Calvin) Solomon; James Earl Keaton.

Emma was preceded in death by her Parents: James and Edith "Honey" Keaton; Sibling: Felecia Diane; Patrick; and Grandchild: Morgan Emily Payne.