Melbia Kay (Hart) Payne

Melbia Kay Payne was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt. She left this world on

May 4, 2022 at the age of 79 to be with the Lord forevermore. Kay, as she was known, passed away

peacefully at her Burleson home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on March 6, 1943, in

Memphis, Tennessee to Gladys and Earl Hart. When Kay was 13, the family settled in Haltom City, Texas

after living in multiple states across the country. She was raised in a loving, humble family.

Soon after moving to Haltom City, Kay met the love of her life, Robert “Rooster” Payne, who lived only a

few blocks away. They married in 1959 and have spent 63 years getting to know each other. Together,

they raised four children, Robbie, Kaylea, Jay, and Gibben while living on 10 acres in Joshua, Texas.

Kay’s greatest joy came from being a devoted mother and wife. She especially loved cooking for family

and friends, keeping them full of good home cooked meals and desserts. She was a passionate and

protective mother and grandmother. Her smile lit up a room and was matched by her wit and sassiness.

Those left to treasure her memory include her husband, Robert E. Payne, Sr. (Rooster), son Robert E.

Payne, Jr. and wife, Tamara of Burleson; daughter Kaylea Johnson and husband, Lonnie of Covington;

daughter Gibben Griffin and husband, Andrew of Crowley; daughter-in-law Wylene, 10 grandchildren, 8

great grandchildren, sister Bobby Harvey of Burleson, brother Ricky Hart of Benbrook, and several

special nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Doris Purcell; brother, David Hart; son, Jay Payne, and

beloved granddaughter Cherish Franklin.

Her battle with serious medical issues in recent years including multiple cancers showed her courage in

facing life challenges head on. Despite ongoing pain and hospital stays, Kay fought with tenacity and

strength until the end.

Kay was a lifelong Christian, raised attending church every weekend with her family. She was often

heard singing hymns around the house. Her family is at peace knowing she has no more pain and is with

the Lord.

Visitation will be held on Monday, May 9 th at 1:00 pm followed immediately by funeral services at 2:00

pm at Mountain Valley Funeral Home located at 3407 SW Wilshire Blvd, Joshua, Texas.