Shasta Payne

A Celebration of Her Life

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Thank you for helping us celebrate the life of someone so incredibly special—Shasta. It's difficult to find the right words when someone as vibrant, loving, and full of life leaves us far too soon. But we are here because we loved her—and because she loved us. Deeply, fiercely, and unconditionally.

Shasta was many things—a daughter, a sister, a friend, a mom, a wife. She wore each of those titles with pride, purpose, and a twinkle in her eye. She loved big and loud, with her whole heart—and, let’s be honest, with a bit of sass. Because if you knew Shasta, you knew she never held back when she had something to say.

From a young age, Shasta knew exactly what she wanted in life: to be a wife and a mother. She didn’t chase fame or fortune—her dream was simple, but powerful. She dreamed of love. Of a family. Of a home filled with laughter, joyful chaos, and the sound of little feet running across sticky floors. And she made that dream a beautiful reality.

Let’s talk about her friendships—because wow, Shasta never met a stranger. Whether it was the checkout lady at Target or someone sitting next to her at a school event, by the end of the conversation, Shasta knew their life story—and probably had their phone number and plans to meet at the park or library by the following week. That was just her magic.

If you were lucky enough to be her friend, you already know: Shasta would give you the clothes off her back—literally. The friendships she formed weren’t fleeting—they were for life. It didn’t matter if you spoke every day or only every few months—Shasta picked up right where you left off, like no time had passed at all. She made you feel like you mattered. Like you were the most important person in the room. Because to her—you were. She loved her friends with her whole heart.

She was blessed with two beautiful daughters, who were the very center of her world. Everything she did—everything—was for them. Whether it was late-night cuddles, silly kitchen dance parties, going to every Girl Scout function, or organizing epic neighborhood events, Shasta gave motherhood her all. She didn’t just love her girls—she adored them. She was their biggest fan, their fiercest protector, and yes, their overly enthusiastic cheerleader at every performance, and practice.

Shasta didn’t just love her own kids—she loved all children. If there was a baby in the room, she was holding it. She had an uncanny ability to make kids feel safe, seen, and celebrated. Whether it was her warm smile, her knack for turning anything into a game, or just that beautiful, nurturing heart—she got kids. She just knew. When a child needed a hug, a joke, or a snack, Shasta had it covered. Usually all three.

As a sister and daughter, Shasta was the glue that held everything together. As the oldest sibling, she took her role seriously—sometimes too seriously. She often acted like a second mom, even handing out her own version of punishments to her siblings… which, as you can imagine, wasn’t always well-received. But it was done out of love (and maybe a little bossiness). She brought the fun, the laughter, and the occasional tears—usually happy ones. Unless there was a Disney movie on—then it was an impromptu Disney karaoke sing-off at full volume. No one did “Let It Go” quite like Shasta.

And as a wife... she loved Stephen with a depth that was unmistakable. Their love was real. Not the polished, picture-perfect kind – but raw and honest. A love filled with laughter, inside jokes, and competitive game nights that sometimes ended with both laughter and a tiny bit of trash talk. She was Stephen’s partner, his rock, his best friend.

Shasta left this world far too soon, and the space she leaves behind is impossible to fill. But so is the love she gave. It was vast, endless, and unconditional. She taught us how to laugh louder, hug tighter, and love harder. She showed us how to be silly, how to be kind, and how to always keep snacks in your bag—because you never know who might need one.

So today, through our tears, let’s smile. Let’s share stories. Let’s laugh, the way Shasta would want us to. Because if there was one thing she couldn’t stand, it was long, boring speeches. She would want this to be a celebration—not a sad goodbye.

Shasta, we will carry your light with us always. You may have left this world too soon, but the love you gave us—that’s forever.

We love you. Always.

A memorial gathering for Shasta will be held Thursday, April 24, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM. The family would like to invite everyone young and old to share experiences and stories about Shasta, all are invited. Her celebration of life will follow at 6:30 PM. The gathering and celebration are both at the Robert E. Evans Funeral Home, 16000 Annapolis Road, Bowie, MD 20715,