Myrl Ruth Payment

Myrl Ruth Payment, age 83, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026. She was born on September 19, 1942, and lived a life filled with love, resilience, joy, and deep devotion to her family.

She is survived by her loving and loyal husband of forty years, Edward "Gaboo" Payment; her one and only daughter, Rean Margot; and her favorite son-in-law, John Amato. As well as her son Kaol Snyder. Rean blessed Myrl with three amazing grandchildren: Jessica Nadine and her husband Benton Farrell; Austin James Freund and his wife Katie, along with their son Weston; and Luciano Michael Amato and his longtime love Mallory Hoaltin. Myrl was also deeply loved by her many nieces and nephews.

Myrl grew up in a large, close-knit family. She is survived by her siblings, Monica (William) Marsh; Bonita Hoops; Brenda (Thomas) Cook; Laury Henry; & sister-in-law Gail (John) McKerchie. Her lifelong bonds with her siblings were a source of comfort and strength throughout her life.

Myrl was married for forty years to her devoted husband, Edward Payment. Through him, she was embraced by another loving family, including Ed's parents Lois Payment and James & Sharon Payment, and his siblings Nathan Payment; Sam (Debbie) Payment; Krista Jones; Sandy St. Onge; Andrea Payment; and Pierre Payment. One of Myrl's favorite simple pleasures was going for a ride. She would often say to her "Wubby" with a smile, "Let's go for a ride," and he always knew exactly what that meant-it was time for a trip to the casino. These spontaneous adventures were part of their special rhythm together, filled with laughter and shared excitement. Myrl loved to gamble and was quite lucky at it.

In her early years, Myrl became well known as an exceptional bartender in Grand Rapids, Michigan, working at the Silver Spur and The Swinging Door in Comstock Park. She was adored in the industry, instantly recognized for her big, beautiful pearly-white smile and her warm, welcoming nature. After returning to her birthplace, Sault Ste. Marie, she continued her bartending career at the Red Bird Inn and the Hilltop on Sugar Island, where she formed lasting friendships and became a beloved face in the community.

Later, Myrl discovered her true passion when she became a home care nurse for The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. For nineteen years, she cared for community Elders with gentleness, dignity, and compassion. This work brought her deep fulfillment. She had a heart of gold and touched countless lives through her kindness.

Myrl also loved celebrating life at her beautiful home in Hessel, Michigan, where she took joy in hosting family and friends. She also loved gazing at the moon, sun, and stars - simple, peaceful moments that reflected her deep appreciation for nature. She cultivated vibrant gardens filled with flowers, trees, and a special "people garden" full of personality. Myrl decorated the yard with meaningful Native American trinkets that reflected her spirit and heritage. For many springs, she and Ed welcomed loved ones to join them in making maple syrup-a beloved tradition filled with laughter and togetherness. They cherished hosting family gatherings and enjoyed taking big side-by-side rides, creating unforgettable memories for all who shared those moments. Myrl will be forever remembered for her warmth, her strength, her brilliant smile, and her unwavering love for the people around her. Her legacy lives on in the family she adored, the community she served, and the countless hearts she touched.

Myrl also had a deep love for her four-legged furry companions. Her most recent beloved pet was her loyal lab, Sky'a, who brought her endless comfort and joy.

Myrl was preceded in death by her firstborn son, Kevin Snyder; her parents, Ruth McKerchie and David McKerchie; and her siblings John (Jack) McKerchie, Thelma McKerchie, David "Jerry" McKerchie, Janene Budnick and her husband Thomas Budnick, Donald (Duck) McKerchie and his wife Joanne McKerchie, and Richard (Dick) McKerchie. She was also preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Nathan Payment; her sister-in-law, Debbie Payment; and her mother and father-in-law, James Payment and Sharon Payment.

A Celebration of Life will take place on April 18, 2026, from 12:00 Noon to 3:00 PM at the Niigaanagiizhik Ceremonial Building, 11 Circle Chi Mukwa, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking you please consider donations to the Hospice of the EUP, 308 W. 12th Avenue, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783 or Northwoods Home Care Hospice, 226 S. Cedar St., Manistique, MI 49854.

Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.

Obituary as submitted by family.