Joan Ernestine Payne, 65, passed away on June 18, 2021 in Mesa, Arizona. Joan was born July 26, 1955 in New York, New York to Stanley Harwood and Mary Marolo. In her youth, she developed her love of ballet and fashion, and her pride in her Italian heritage. She met and married the love of her life, Vern, in 1974, and together they raised five children. Joan served one term on the Mesa City Council, and worked in apartment management for many years. She loved Disney, the beach, shopping and celebrating the holidays; but above all, she was passionate about her family and cherished being a wife, mother, and grandmother.
She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Vernon Payne; and her children Lee, Dustin (Elizabeth), Gina (Yaman), Valerie (Samuel), and Hayley (David); as well as her nine grandchildren, Summer, Kendal, Beckham, Yaman, Kaya, Jadyn, Taimane, Myka, and Fox.
Private services for close friends and family will be held on June 30, 2021 at Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park and Funeral Care.
