Shirley Payne

Shirley Ann Payne, 81, ran into her Savior, Jesus Christ's, arms on February 1, 2025, in the early morning, surrounded by her daughters. She was a beloved daughter, sister, mother, Noni, and friend.
Shirley was born on June 30, 1943, in Tyler, Texas, to James Benton Payne and Helen Ann Henley Payne. Her early years were spent in Enid, Oklahoma, participating in tennis, International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, volunteering with special education students, enjoying learning and reading as many books as she could get her hands on. She was very close with her parents and extended family. A highlight of hers was convincing her dad to watch Elvis' debut on the Ed Sullivan Show.
Later, she moved to Edmond, Oklahoma, where she graduated from Central State College with a bachelor's degree in Education with an emphasis in special education and home economics. She built her life in Edmond, where she was a First United Methodist Church and Crossings Community Church member-at the same time, enjoying watching St. Luke's Methodist Church on Sunday mornings. She was involved in the Dinner Club, Edmond Womens Club, and HOPE Center of Edmond. Her career consisted of being the CEO of Organizing Touch, an administrator for nursing homes and retirement communities, and a special education teacher. She remained in Edmond, where she raised her three daughters, whom she treasured dearly. Shirley found her greatest joy in being a mother. She was involved in her daughters' lives in any way she could: PTA president, homeroom mom, Girl Scout leader, Performing Arts Council of Edmond, and the biggest fan in any crowd. When sharing with others what she enjoyed in life, she would say quiet evenings, rocking in her chair, holding children, pedicures, hugs, snuggles, and reading. Shirley was passionate about gardening, cooking, daisies, flip flops, everything purple, and her family: genealogy and reunions. She cared deeply for her family and would always find a way to share about her G-Kids.
Shirley is survived by her children, Tamorah Ann Wright-Diaz and husband Ric, Deborah Dawn Gorman and husband John, Kimorah Kai Edwards, and husband Heath; grandchildren, John James Gorman, Natali Linn Hassett and husband Kyle, Christian James Diaz, Alexandra Danielle Gorman, and Aubrianna Patrice Diaz and many extended family and friends. Shirley Ann Payne will be remembered for her boundless love, mischievous and adventurous spirit, and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind in the hearts of those who knew her.
Shirley's final resting place is at Gracelawn Cemetery in Edmond, Oklahoma.
The family will hold a private memorial service to honor her memory and kindly request that, if desired, contributions be made to Edmond Mobile Meals in her honor.
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