Ms Emily Stephens Payne's Obituary
Funeral Service for Ms. Emily Stephens Payne, 44, of New Site, Alabama will be Sunday, July 16, 2023 at 7:00 pm at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Randy Anderson will officiate. The family will receive friends on Sunday, July 16, 2023 from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm at Radney Funeral Home.
Emily Stephens Payne, known to all as Emmy, took her final curtain call on July 12, 2023, in New Site, Alabama, ending her 44-year-long spectacular show of life that began on November 27, 1978, in Alexander City, Alabama. A woman of boundless energy and creativity, Emily lived life in bold strokes, painting a vibrant picture that was as colorful as her sense of humor.
Emily's early days were spent in New Site, where she was born into the fantastic cast of characters that was her family. She was the beloved daughter of Susan De'Layne McGill and Rickey Stephens both from New Site, and sister to Amy (Jay) Gibson from Niceville, FL. Emily's family tree also included her two precious children, Marley Elizabeth Woodruff and Stephen Matthew Duerr ,her grandfather Lewis Harold McGill, and her sisters-in-love, Alicia Bence Peters (Ken) and Kaci (Josh) Hill from New Site. Not to mention the numerous cousins who were always ready for the next family adventure.
Emily was a proud alumna of Auburn University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Political Science. With an intellect as sharp as her wit, she went on to serve as the Court Referral Director for the State of Alabama. In this role, she was known for her fairness, integrity, and touched many lives.
Emily had a zest for life that was infectious. She loved traveling, hunting, spending time outdoors, and had a soft spot for horses and goats. Music was another passion of hers, and she was known to burst into song at the most unexpected moments, much to the amusement of those around her.
Describing Emily as adventurous and spirited does not do her justice. She was a whirlwind of energy, always ready for the next adventure, whether it was a spontaneous road trip or a backyard treasure hunt with her kids. She lived life fearlessly, always with a twinkle in her eye and a joke on her lips. Her creativity knew no bounds, and she found humor in the most mundane aspects of life, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.
Emily's departure has left a void that can never be filled. But as we mourn her loss, let's remember her the way she would have wanted - with laughter, joy, and a good dose of humor. After all, Emily didn't just exist in the world; she danced, she sang, she laughed, and most importantly, she lived.
So here's to Emily Stephens Payne, a woman who colored outside the lines, laughed in the face of adversity, and rode life like a wild horse. Her spirit, her laughter, and her love will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew her. She was not just a character in the story of life; she was the author, the director, and the star of her own show. And what a show it was!
Emily, thank you for the laughter, the love, and the memories. You may have left the stage, but your performance will forever be remembered.
What’s your fondest memory of Emily?
What’s a lesson you learned from Emily?
Share a story where Emily's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Emily you’ll never forget.
How did Emily make you smile?