Willie Evelyn Payne

Born on November 29, 1928, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Evelyn spent her life rooted in the community where she was born. Her life spanned nearly a century of constant change and growth, and throughout, she remained a steady presence to those in her life. She created a family from everyone around her. Nurturing and fiercely protective, she was a second mother or "Nana" to many. She loved working, learning, and sharing her experiences whenever she could. Her stories about her life, and the audacious and comical things she did, are legendary. She remained positive and hopeful, even in the worst of times, and was an inspiration and source of strength to us all. She was “a tough old broad” who focused on the best parts of life, lived as an example of goodness and kindness, and may have simply been one of the best souls to ever grace this earth.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William Mitch White and Hilda White, and her husband, H. Fred Payne Jr.. Her memory will be cherished by her daughter, Rebecca Payne (Allen), her granddaughters, Amanda Lawing (J.R.), Angela Greer (Tyler), her great-grandchildren, Evelyn Dugan and Ian Lawing, her sister-in-law, Jane Payne, and all who knew her.

Pastor Grady Davidson will support the family in a private graveside service to honor her life on July 23, 2025, in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

The family would like to express their appreciation for the kindness, compassion, and great care provided by CHI Memorial North Park and Hearth Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Timothy Two Project International, 2017 Corporate Dr. Suite 101, Wilmington, NC 28405, to the account of Missionary Grady Davidson.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastChapel.com.