TYNELL PAYNE

Tynell Payne, beloved daughter, sister, mother, and friend, passed away on December 23, 2024, at the age of 63. Born on November 25, 1961, Tynell was a shining light in the lives of many, leaving behind a legacy filled with love, creativity, and dedication to education.

As the ninth child of twelve, Tynell was raised in a loving family environment that fostered her talents and interests. Her love for God began at an early age.  She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior as a child at Triumph Baptist Church under leadership of the late Pastor F.D. Nash.  Tynell used her God given talent of singing as an alto in Triumph's choir and the Monroe Mass Choir.  In Los Angeles, California she united with The City of Refuge Church in Gardena, California under the leadership of Bishop Noel Jones where she faithfully used her gifts of praying, teaching and giving until God called her home.

 A proud graduate of Carroll High School in Monroe, Louisiana, Tynell excelled in the marching band as a clarinet player, setting the stage for her vibrant life. She pursued higher education at Grambling State University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 1983. During her time at Grambling, she was an active member of the Orchesis dance company, showcasing her passion for the arts.

Tynell began her teaching career in her home city and worked diligently in the Ouachita Parish and Monroe City School District before relocating to Los Angeles, California in 1987. There, she continued her commitment to education by joining the Los Angeles Unified School District. With relentless dedication, she furthered her qualifications, earning both a Master’s degree and a National Board certification as a professional educator. Tynell dedicated 36 remarkable years to teaching, inspiring countless students before retiring in 2023.

In addition to her role as an educator, Tynell was a skilled consultant and makeup artist with Vera Moore Cosmetics. Her creativity extended beyond the classroom; she was known for building unique furniture and artistic pieces from tree stumps, showcasing her ability to see beauty in the everyday. A published author, Tynell released her book titled “Fighting like a Girl and I’m Still Standing So Can You” in 2020, reflecting her strength and resilience.

Most profoundly, Tynell cherished her role as a mother to her “favorite daughter,” Bianca Franchesca Newby, whom she affectionately called Binky. Tynell's love and devotion as a mother defined her life, and her impact will be felt by Bianca for years to come.

She was preceded in death by her beloved grandparents, Howard and Mamie Ruth Walker, Mary Payne and P. H. Jackson as well as her parents, Eugene, Sr. and Ollie Ruth Payne. Tynell was also preceded by her brothers, Gene Payne and Glenn Payne, along with brother-in-law Charles Price, and sisters-in-law Valley Payne and Catina Payne

Tynell leaves behind a loving family that includes the love of her life her daughter Bianca Franchesca Newby, sisters Jeanette Payne, Delphine Payne, Alexis Payne-Price, Erika Payne, Angela Payne-Gibson, and Crystal Payne, as well as brothers Eugene Payne, Jr., Barron D. Payne, and Greg Howard Payne. She also shared a deep sisterly bond with her best friend/ sister Natalie Lawrence-Hayes (Michael), nieces, nephews, aunt, special relatives and friends.

Tynell Payne will be remembered not only for her contributions to education and the arts but for the warmth of her spirit and the kindness she extended to all who crossed her path. A visitation will be held at Triumph Baptist Church, located at 800 Girod Street, Monroe, Louisiana on January 2, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a celebration of life at 11:00 AM. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved her.