Tomorrow we say goodbye to my Great-Aunt Virginia, who always called me “Curls.” ❤️ ... She helped me see my curls differently, and I’ll always love her for that.

I was lucky enough to visit Aunt Virginia just a couple of weeks ago with my mom, my daughter, Carol and Bob/Debbie. I’ll always remember her fabulous clothes/fashion, playing the piano with her, and her amazing dip recipe (which I really should have gotten in writing!). Her double patio at Leisure World was filled with her and (Uncle) Bob’s model train collection - most of which she hand painted. One of my favorite memories of her is breaking one of Bob’s mini train conductor figures. I was remember being worried looking up at her - but she just laughed and said it was her least favorite one anyway. 😂 That was her. She was so thoughtful of other's feelings, and I’ll never forget that about her.

I’m grateful for the memories, the laughter, and the little lessons she left me with. Rest peacefully, Aunt Virginia. I hope heaven has a beautiful train village, a closet full of fabulous clothes, and plenty of your famous dip. 

I find comfort in knowing Aunt Virginia is now reunited with her husband, son and grandson in God’s loving arms.❤️

Virginia was such a special women.  She was beautiful, supportive, and kind.  Her daughter-in-law, Carol Payne, Barbara Frink and I formed a trio to sing at local events around South County (the Lollipops.)  Virginia was very helpful, arranged for performance dates, and even bought us a keyboard for practicing and performing.  It was such a thoughtful and helpful gift.  Carol and I would visit her as she got older. She was always  so sweet.  She never had a harsh word for anyone.  She will  really be missed by those of us who knew and loved her.  She is now my Angel in heaven.
Love, 
Diana Golightly

Few people possess the rare combination of grace and intelligence that Great Aunt Virginia carried. She exuded an elegance that made you want to be just like her—and truly, most people did. From her perfectly curated jewelry to her immaculate style, she was always beautifully put together. She even sports the kind of long, gorgeous silver hair that any hairdresser would envy. You simply do not see that level of classic class anymore.
Beyond her grace, Virginia was defined by her sharp intelligence and creativity. She was a woman well ahead of her time, and I remember being in awe of her early adoption of computers. That creative spirit was also on full display in the extensive train layout she built with her family; it wasn't just a toy train set, it was a manufacturing masterpiece.
Great Aunt Virginia will be deeply missed, but the cherished memories of her—and the holidays spent at her apartment—will never be forgotten. We love you, Virginia, and we take comfort knowing you are reunited in heaven with your beloved husband and son.

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Virginia Payne

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OBITUARY

Virginia Merl Payne

May 24, 1927 – September 26, 2026

Pacific View Mortuary & Memorial Park

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