Mary Payne

Thursday, January 14, 2021, Mary “Anita” Payne, 70, left her earthly body and met her Lord and Savior.  Born February 18, 1950 in Somerville, TN to Joseph Brooks Lax and Elizabeth “Betty” Gay Glidewell Lax of Bolivar, TN

Anita married the love of her life, Tommy Lee Payne, October 12, 1996.  Over their 24 years of marriage, they enjoyed traveling with friends, but mostly spending time with family.  Anita had a love for her family like no other.  Her greatest accomplishments were her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Anita was an active member of River of Life Church in Brandon, MS.

She is survived by her husband Tommy Lee Payne, children, Shelly Lynn Chapa (Adam) of Waxahachie, TX, Joseph Ray “J.R.” Richardson (Deanna) of Jackson, MS, Anthony Todd Payne of Flowood, MS, and Valerie Paige Richardson along with 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. She is also survived by siblings Linda Gayle Watkins (Wayne) of Bolivar, TN, Donald “Wayne” Lax (Betty) of Bolivar, TN, and Sandra Kay Vandenbergh (Jim) of Wilmington, IL and several nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her parents, two step daughters, Dansia Leigh Payne and Sondra LaFran Payne; one brother Ronald Dewayne Lax, and one grandchild.

Graveside services will be held at 11am on Sat. Jan. 23, 2021 at Oakdale Baptist Church Cemetery in Brandon, MS. Ott & Lee Funeral Home in Brandon, MS is handling arrangements.