Colleen Payne

Colleen Payne, 96, of Hixson, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.

A devoted wife, mother, and matriarch, Colleen spent much of her early life traveling the country alongside her husband during his military career. While he was often away at sea, she raised their three children-even without having a driver's license-showing the quiet strength, love, and perseverance that defined her life. A dedicated homemaker, Colleen's world revolved around her family. She was a loving and caring mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and great-great-great-grandmother, and she cherished each generation dearly.

Colleen had a joyful love for baseball and was a superfan of the Atlanta Braves, rarely missing a game and proudly cheering for her favorite player, Austin Riley. She was also a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Chattanooga, where her faith and fellowship remained central throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William M. "Bill" Payne; daughter, Linda Gooden; parents, Ray and Bessie Jackson; and siblings, Marjorie Massengale, Billy Jackson, and Edwin Jackson.

Survivors include her son, Danny Payne (Glenda); daughter, Nancy Lacy; five grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hearth Hospice, 811 Broad Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402.

A graveside service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday in Hamilton Memorial Gardens

The family extends a special thank-you to Jennifer and all the nurses of Hearth Hospice for their compassionate care.

Arrangements entrusted to Lane Funeral Home, 601 Ashland Terrace, Chattanooga, TN 37415, (423) 877-3524, lanefh.com