Norma Delois Payton

Norma entered this world on July 6, 1931, in Baxter, Arkansas, born to James Sr. and Mary Ann Miller. From a young age, she dedicated her life to God. Norma's educational path took her through Baxter's elementary, junior high, and high schools. She continued her studies at Bakersfield College, where she earned an Associate of Arts Degree in Child Development.

Norma was first married to Mr. Norman Evans. Together. they were blessed with three children: a son. Johnny L. and two beautiful daughters. JoAnne and Carolyn. Sadly, Carolyn passed away at just seven days old. In 1956. Norma entered into marriage with Mr. Henry Harns, Jr. This union brought two more beautiful children into her life: Wanda and LaJoyce.

Norma was a member of her father's church, the late Bishop James Miller, Sr., where he served the church faithfully. Subsequently, Norma and her parents became members of the Greater Evangelist Temple Church of God in Christ under the tutelage of the late Superintendent Roosevelt Kemp, Sr. During her time at Greater Evangelist Temple, she received her credentials as a licensed missionary.

Later, Missionary Norma joined Greater Harvest Christian Center under the leadership of Senior Pastor, Bishop Vernon R. Kemp. There she served faithfully and continued her devotion to service by joining the Mother's Board and actively supporting various ministries, offering guidance, wisdom, and encouragement to the church family.

After the death of her previous husband, Missionary Norma met Bro. Charles Payton in 2001. Their relationship blossomed, and on November 22, 2002, they were united in holy matrimony. Norma and Charles shared a unique bond and deep affection for each other, spending eighteen years together.

On July 27, 2022, Missionary Payton moved her membership to Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Kevin Edwards. Her unwavering faith and commitment to nurturing others left a lasting impact on every congregation she was part of.

Missionary Payton was renowned for her profound wisdom, particularly in matters of faith and biblical teachings. Her understanding of the Scriptures was truly exceptional. She enjoyed reading, relaxing with western films. and soap operas. Professionally, she held various roles, including working as a restaurant cook, serving as a housekeeper, and being a dedicated long-term staff member at Ralph Smith Realtor Services. In addition to her many responsibilities, she was a devoted presence every Sunday morning on the Spiritual Devotion broadcast, where she served as both a 'Prayer Warrior' and a 'DJ' for The Bakersfield Singers' Association, continuing her service until her health made it difficult for her to navigate the stairs in the building.

Missionary Norma Payton was preceded in death by her parents, Bishop James and Mary A. Miller Sr., husband Charles Payton, one daughter, Carolynn Evans; six siblings: John W. Leroy, and Jeffery Miller; Juanita Gilmore, Marilyn Mastermor, Clautell Wynn, and Charlene Miller Hammonds, and two sons-in-law, Pastor Charles L. Steen, and Pastor David W. Coston.

Missionary Norma Payton leaves to cherish her memory one Son, John L Evans (Martha); three Daughters: JoAnne Evans-Coston of Bakersfield, CA: Wanda Steen, of Corona, CA, and LaJoyce Evans of Katy, TX, three Sisters: Glennett Britton, Claudette Thomas, and Gloria Banks; two Brothers: Ivory Miller (JoAnne), and James Miller Jr.

Her legacy lives on through her twelve grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren, four great, great-grandchildren, and an extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A visitation for Norma will be held Friday, September 19, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at RISING STAR BAPTIST CHURCH, 3421 Wilson Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93309. A funeral service will occur Friday, September 19, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 3421 Wilson Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93309. A graveside service will occur Friday, September 19, 2025 from 1:15 PM to 1:45 PM at Bakersfield National Cemetery, 30338 E Bear Mountain Blvd, Arvin, CA 93203.