Betty Jean Eaves Payton
Betty Jean Eaves Payton, a beloved mother, grandmother, great and great great grandmother, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2024 at the age of 90 in her home in Oakfield.
Born on June 22, 1934 in Jackson, Betty lived her entire life in the Oakfield community, where she was a beacon of love, kindness, and service. For over 20 years, Betty Jean worked for the Boy Scouts of America, where she made a significant impact on the lives of countless young people, fostering a sense of community, responsibility, and adventure. Her commitment to the Boy Scouts was a testament to her dedication to helping others and making a positive difference in the world.
A faithful member of Browns Church, Betty Jean sang in the choir and taught Sunday school, sharing her love for music and faith with her church family. Her beautiful voice and heartfelt teachings touched many lives, and she was a source of inspiration and guidance to all who knew her.
Betty Jean had a deep love for Tennessee Football, Lady Vols Basketball, and St. Louis Cardinals baseball often cheering on her favorite teams with enthusiasm and passion.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Morris Neil Payton; and her sisters, Dorothy Ross, Juanita Moore, and Zilla White. Betty Jean’s memory will be forever cherished by her family, friends, and all who had the honor of knowing her. Her legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.
Betty Jean was a devoted mother to Garey Payton (Judy) of Oakfield, Carol Payton Macon of Oakfield, Leigh Payton Wiseman (Roy) of Hickman, KY, and Lynn Payton Gowler (Casey) of Riverside, MO; a proud grandmother to Jennifer Wilson (Mackey), Angela Wakefield (Ray), Matthew Wiseman (Ashley Woodcock), Ashley Fortner (Matthew), Ashleigh Sax (Cooper), and Andrew Gowler; four great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings, Ann DeLoach and Peggy Coleman (Ronald). Her family was her pride and joy, and she found immense happiness in spending time with her grandchildren, creating lasting memories filled with love and laughter.
A service to celebrate the life of Betty Payton will be held on Sunday, August 4, 2024 at 3:00 pm at the North Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons with Bro. Jesse Long and Bro. Stephen Callicoat officiating. Burial will follow in Oakfield Cemetery. The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00, two hours prior to the service at the funeral home.
Active pallbearers to serve will be Alan Ewell, Jerry Milam, Jackie Moore, Matthew Wiseman, Aubrey Coleman, Matthew Fortner, Chris Williams, and Barry Maxwell.
Betty Jean Eaves Payton will be remembered for her unwavering love, her generous spirit, and the joy she brought into the lives of those around her. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
