Betty Sue Payne, 76, of Puxico, went home to meet our heavenly father Sunday, May 12th, 2024 after a long battle with Alzheimers. Born to the late Albert and Margaret Maggie Conner, she was one of fifteen children. She was raised on the banks of the St. Francis River just below Wappapello Lake.
Ms. Betty is survived by five daughters, Sandra Walker (Jack), Rebecca Payne, Laura Payne, Judy Payne, and Joanna Payne as well as five grandchildren, Hailey Foust, Taylor Cheatham, Meghan Cheatham, Preston Payne Carraway, and Hannah Carraway.
Ms. Betty spent many years taking care of her girls, sewing clothes, gardening, preserving food, cooking, and cleaning but in spite of all the work, she always taught her girls to enjoy life too. She loved to go camping, boating, soak up the sun at the beach, or anything outdoors in nature. She enjoyed walking eight miles a day diligently as well as mowing her yard multiple times a week with her push mower for exercise.
Ms. Betty first and foremost loved Jesus and served Gods kingdom most of her life. She was a firm believer in loving the unlovable and showing kindness to the broken. She always wanted everyone to know, regardless of your circumstances, you are loved by God. Ms. Betty had a heart for people and would give someone the last dollar in her pocket if she thought they needed it. She picked many travelers up on the road and her first question would always be are you hungry?
Ms. Betty was an employee of the Mingo Jop Corps as a food service instructor before retiring in 2014. She loved spending time with the students and encouraging them in obtaining life skills.
Ms. Betty is also survived by one brother, Buddy (Lousie) Conner and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Along with her parents, preceding her in death were eight brothers: Francis Conner (infant), Harvey Conner, Ralph Conner, Francis Conner, AJ Conner, Carl Conner, Howard Conner, and Claudie Conner and five sisters: Ruth Conner (infant), Geraldine Conner, Edna Pitt, Margaret Jones, and Lorene Grimes.
Visitation will be held at the New Hope Church and Cemetery at McGee, MO on Saturday May 18th from 11:00-1:00 with the funeral service starting at 1:00. Her beloved nephew, Bro. Dale Jones, will be officiating. Pallbearers will be Jack Walker, Preston Carraway, Brian Jones, Arlin Hale, Michael Conner, and Roger Pitt.
Morgan Funeral Home in Advance, MO is in charge of all arrangements.
To order floral arrangements please contact The Flower Box in Advance, MO at 573-722-5166. The family request memorial donations be made to McGee New Hope Church in McGee, MO.
