Linda Jean Payne

Linda Jean Payne, as she was first known was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, nurse, and friend. She was born on July 28, 1943, in Lafayette, Indiana, the first child of Eugene and Zella (Wood) Richard. Growing up on the outskirts of Lafayette with her two brothers, she was affectionately called “Winda.” It would be the first of many names by which she would be known and loved.

Linda’s naturally caring spirit led her to pursue a career in nursing, completing her education through Methodist Hospital and Indiana University’s schools of Nursing. Her deep love of children shaped her lifelong dedication to pediatric care. As a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, she became known to many as “Nurse Linda,” a trusted and compassionate presence in the lives of countless families. She was a pioneer in the development of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners in Indiana, Kansas, and Texas. Linda served in this role from 1971 until her retirement in 2010 in Austin, Texas, and she cherished her years working alongside exceptional pediatricians and families at Pediatric Associates and Austin Diagnostic Clinic.

During a Memorial Day weekend in 1971, a chance meeting while sunbathing brought John “Dave” Payne into her life. They were married on October 28 of that year, beginning a 54-year marriage filled with love, partnership, and joy. Together, they built a family that brought Linda immense pride and happiness, including their son Cory, his wife Taylor, and their three daughters—Ruby Mae, Pearl Louise, and Conley Jean. Known as “Gema” to her grandchildren, Linda treasured the time she spent caring for them during their preschool years.

Linda was loving, quiet, and reserved, though her spirited side shone brightly when cheering at her son’s football games. She found joy in designing party décor, sewing, quilting, and volunteering for school activities. She and Dave also shared many happy years square dancing together. However she was known best to you, Linda, Winda, Nurse Linda, Gema, loud lady at the games, always remember her giving spirit, selflessness, loyalty, laughter, and joy in the little things of life. Those are the things that defined her life more than anything.

Linda is survived by her husband, Dave; her son, Cory (wife Taylor); her three granddaughters, Ruby Mae, Pearl Louise, and Conley Jean; her brothers, Jan (wife Dawn) and Dana (wife Cheryl); Dave’s sister, Carol Badillo; as well as many nieces, nephews, and other loved relatives. She was blessed with many lifelong friends.

A celebration of life will be held to share memories and stories.

In lieu of flowers, remembrance donations may be made to any organization that supports children, or to a charity of your choice.

She Is Gone

You can shed tears that she is gone

Or you can smile because she has lived

You can close your eyes and pray that she will come back

Or you can open your eyes and see all that she has left

Your heart can be empty, because you can’t see her

Or you can be full of the love that you have shared

You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday

Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday

You can remember her, and only that she is gone

Or you can cherish her memory, and let it live on

You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back

Or you can do what she would want;

smile, open your eyes, love and go on

-By David Harkins