Lawanda Nicole Payton

LaWanda Nicole Payton, affectionately known as “Lovely,” age 47, of Jackson, Mississippi, passed away on March 28, 2026, at Memorial Hermann Northeast in Humble, Texas.

LaWanda was born on December 19, 1978, in Jackson, Mississippi, to Randy McGrone and the late Damita Fairman. She pursued her education at Mississippi State University, where she majored in Accounting and became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. She later established her career in Houston, Texas, where she was employed with Weatherford.

In 2003, LaWanda met the love of her life, Murphy Payton, while they were both working at Sierra Spring Water Company in Texas. What began as a friendship quickly blossomed into a beautiful love story. United in love and purpose, they were married on February 3, 2005, and built a life centered on faith, family, and commitment.

LaWanda and Murphy created a loving home, and their children were the center of her world. She cherished every moment spent with her daughter, Coriyanna Payton; her sons, Caleb and Conner Payton; and her bonus son, Aareeon Demby. Whether traveling, celebrating milestones, or simply enjoying time together, LaWanda made every moment meaningful.

LaWanda shared an unbreakable bond with her dear friends Kimberly M., Wanda M., Latrice W., Venea S., Sharon, Dee Blaire, and Alicia W. Their friendships were filled with laughter, love, and countless unforgettable memories. Through every season of life, they remained connected, supporting and uplifting one another.

She also held a special and cherished connection with her Aunt Leslie and her cousin Shambia, whose love and presence were an important part of her life. Their bond was rooted in family, strength, and shared memories that will be treasured forever.

Anyone who knew LaWanda knew of her love for capturing memories through pictures, traveling to new places, bringing family together, and wholeheartedly supporting her children and godchildren. Her presence brought warmth, joy, and a sense of togetherness wherever she went.

LaWanda will always be remembered for her unwavering love as a mother, her radiant spirit, and the way she poured into others with kindness and strength. Her legacy lives on through the lives she touched, the memories she created, and the love she gave so freely.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Damita Fairman.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories: her loving husband, Murphy Payton; her daughter, Coriyanna Payton; her sons, Caleb and Conner Payton; her bonus son, Aareeon Demby; her father, Randy McGrone; her brother, LeDarius Fairman; her nephew, LeDarius Fairman Jr.; her beloved Aunt Leslie and cousin Shambia; along with a host of extended family members and dear friends.

Visitation will be held at Paradise Funeral Home, Inc, 10401 West Montgomery, Houston, TX 77088, US, on April 11, 2026, from 1:30 pm to 2:00 pm, followed by a Special Procession at the same location from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm and a Celebration of Life from 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm.

A Committal Service will take place at Paradise Cemetery North, 10401 West Montgomery, Houston, TX 77088, US, on April 11, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 4:30 pm.