Callie Louise Payne

07/26/1947 - 08/07/2025
Service Date: 08/22/2025
Service Time: 1:00 pm
Service Location: Gilbert Memorial Park 2100 E Queen Creek Road, Gilbert, AZ
Interment: Gilbert Memorial Park Cemetery
Callie Louise Payne was born in Chicago, IL on July 26, 1947, to Albert Lee and Carrie Louise Simpson. Most importantly, she was born again, accepting Christ as her Lord and Savior, in the Spring of 1972. She thought she was already a Christian, but discovered that Jesus said, " unless one is born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God" John 3:3 (KJV).
Callie was an accomplished student, graduating from Burke Elementary, DuSable High School (where she was awarded Prom Queen in 1964), and Chicago State University receiving a B.A. in Psychology and a master's degree in Guidance and Counseling.
On June 1, 1968, Callie married the love of her life, Peter Payne, and to that Union two children were born, daughter Chanette and son Aaron.
Callie was a dedicated educator, employed by the Chicago Board of Education until she retired in 2008. She taught 4th grade for several years, was a Special Education Instructor, and Counselor for not only elementary, but secondary education as well. She counseled kids with needs that were unimaginable.
Callie was active in Christian service at the Moody Church in Chicago, ministering to youth, participating in its tract league, and serving in the nursery. After moving outside of the city, she became an active member of New Faith Baptist Church in Matteson, IL where she taught Bible classes to preteens and serving in the Women's Ministry. She was passionate about sharing the Word of God, hosting small groups in her home, as well as conducting virtual small group classes while serving at Disciples Church (formally Christian Life Center) in Tinley Park, IL. What excited Callie the most was working side-by-side with Peter to counsel newly married couples at neighboring churches in the Chicagoland area – sharing the ups, the downs, and what the Word of God says about divorce. After moving to McKinney, Texas, she became a member of Brookhaven Church in 2019 and used her gift of serving others, becoming active in the Hospitality Ministry. She was also active in many small groups. Callie touched so many people throughout her life. She has witnessed to many, leading numerous friends and family members to Jesus Christ. She encouraged, counseled, and used her amazing God-given gifts to make a positive impact on everyone she encountered – many of whom remain eternally grateful to this day. Her infectious smile and laugh will be remembered forever.
Callie is survived by her Husband, Peter Payne; Daughter, Chanette Payne-Weaver (David); Son, Aaron Payne (Raquel); Granddaughters Karina Payne, Ariana Payne; Grandson, Aidan Payne; Brother-in-Law, Steven Payne; Goddaughter, Regina Hoyles-Taylor (Brandon); Nephew, Shawn Payne; Niece, Brittany Payne-Horton (Tony); and a host of cousins in Illinois, Arizona, Indiana, Tennessee, California and New York. Callie had a special Sister Friendships with Shelby Beverly, Clarinda Gipson, and Margie Williams that will never be forgotten. Callie will be sorely missed by relatives and lifelong friends.