Linda Payne

Linda Gail Edwards Payne, an extraordinary wife, mother, daughter, grandmother, sister, aunt, educator, and friend, was born on December 15, 1947, in Ashford, Alabama, to the late Mr. Roy Edwards and Mrs. Lucinda Leath Edwards. On October 15, 2025, she peacefully exchanged her earthly home for her heavenly one, surrounded by the love and prayers of her family. She was preceded in death by her father, her beloved grandmother Larcy Leath, her sister Patricia "Cricket" Edwards and her grandson, Cahlil V. Ellis, Sr.

A SCHOLAR, EDUCATOR, AND TRAILBLAZER

Linda was a woman of remarkable intellect, elegance, and determination. A gifted student and spirited cheerleader, she graduated from Essie Grimsley High School at the young age of sixteen, already displaying the drive that would define her life. She went on to earn her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Stillman College, followed by a Master's and AA degree in Elementary Education from the University of Montevallo.

Her career as an educator spanned 36 devoted years in the Tuscaloosa County School System, with 27 of those years spent at Myrtlewood Elementary School. There, she became a beloved figure, affectionately known as a legend among both colleagues and students. Her "Payne's Super Sixth Grade" classroom was more than just a place of learning; it was a space where students were seen, challenged, and inspired.

Her motto, "Don't just be-Be Somebody!" echoed through the halls and lives of countless students. She nurtured their minds while also caring for their hearts, often tutoring after school, offering encouragement to those in need, and ensuring that every child felt valued. Her influence extended far beyond academics; she taught life lessons about confidence, character, and kindness.

Linda's passion for education and service led her to work closely with student organizations and extracurricular programs. She guided Student Council activities, organized homecoming floats, talent shows, haunted houses, and beauty walks, and championed programs such as the National Junior Honor Society, McDonald's Hughes Center Peer Counselors, and Extended Day initiatives. Her leadership and creativity left a lasting imprint on the community she loved so deeply.

A LEGACY OF SERVICE AND SISTERHOOD

Linda's commitment to service was rooted in her love for people. As a co-founder of The Ladies of Varsa Viennie, she helped establish a circle of women dedicated to faith, sisterhood, and community empowerment. Through this organization, she uplifted others, mentored young women, and promoted excellence in every form. Her presence radiated confidence and compassion, inspiring all who crossed her path to live with purpose and grace.

A LIFE ROOTED IN FAITH AND FAMILY

From a tender age, Linda professed her love for Christ and began a lifelong journey of faith that guided every step she took. Her unwavering devotion to God shone through her words, her deeds, and the way she treated everyone she encountered. She was a proud and faithful member of Good Shepherd Baptist Church, where she served with joy and humility, sharing her many gifts to enrich the spiritual lives of others.

Affectionately known by many names such as Gayle, Linda Gayle, Peaches, Miss Alabama, and the GOAT, she embraced each title with laughter and love. Yet, the names that filled her heart with the greatest pride were "Momma" and "G-Ma." Linda was the heart of her family, the keeper of traditions, and the glue that bound generations together. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and wisdom where everyone knew they were deeply loved.

On May 5, 1967, Linda united in marriage with the love of her life, Constant V. Payne Sr. Together, they built a home filled with faith, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Their union became a testament to enduring love, resilience, and partnership, creating a legacy that continues through their children and grandchildren.

Linda Gail Edwards Payne lived a life of profound impact and immeasurable love. Her journey on earth may have ended, but her spirit lives on in the lessons she taught, the lives she touched, and the love she poured into everyone around her. Truly, hers was a life well-lived, a life of grace, wisdom, and love.

CHERISHED FAMILY

Linda's greatest joy was her family. She leaves behind her loving mother, Mrs. Lucinda Edwards, and her devoted sister, Doris Leath, who shared in her journey through life's joys and challenges.

Her legacy continues through her five beloved children, the pride and joy of her life: Vincent C. (Traci) Payne II, Condre' V. (Cindi) Payne, Conlin V. (Mary) Payne, Dr. Congraleatha VaGayle Payne, and Dr. Caulita Lucinda Payne. To each of them, she imparted the values of integrity, faith, and perseverance, reminding them always to strive for excellence and to walk with grace.

Linda's love multiplied across generations through her treasured grandchildren, each of whom she adored: Eric Woods, Vincent C. Payne III, Auqon T. Payne, Farris K. Payne, Joshua K. Hyche, the late Cahlil V. Ellis, Sr., Travin C. Payne, Kyra Gail Payne, Conlin Payne Jr., Cay’an V. Ellis, Caitlin V. Payne, Lindsay C. Ellis, Kori Joy Payne, Chloe V. Payne, Korryn D. Barnes, Chelsea V. Payne, Kaleigh Gayle Barnes, Kyleigh M. Barnes, Kynsleigh G. Barnes, and Kaleb V. Cotton.

Her love also touched her five great-grandchildren, Kayden K. Hyche, Cahlil V. Ellis Jr., Cobie V. Ellis, Kenzie M. Hyche, and Haevyn N. Payne, who brought her immeasurable joy and laughter.

Linda's nurturing spirit extended to a host of nieces and nephews, cousins, extended family, and her three godchildren, Willie C. Lewis Jr., Ursula "April" Kenyatta Blossom, and Zache' Demond Horton whom she loved as her own. She also shared a sacred bond of sisterhood with her lifelong friend of more than fifty years, Mrs. Bobbie Jean Elizabeth Blossom, her confidante, prayer partner, and constant companion.