Kathy Hilyer Payne's Obituary
Funeral Service for Mrs. Kathy Hilyer Payne, 60, of Dadeville, Alabama, will be Thursday, May 16, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Dr. Kevin James, Sr. will officiate. Burial will follow in the Tallapoosa County Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 16, 2024 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at Radney Funeral Home.
Kathy Hilyer Payne, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on May 14, 2024, at the age of 60, in Montgomery, Alabama. Born on January 6, 1964, in Clay County, Alabama, Kathy was a beacon of love and laughter, touching the lives of all who knew her.
Kathy graduated from New Site High School and went on to further her education at Central Alabama Community College. She built a fulfilling career at Russell Corporation, where she dedicated over 30 years of service. Kathy's professional life was marked by the same warmth and dedication she brought to every aspect of her existence.
Those who had the pleasure of knowing Kathy will remember her as a loving, funny, and friendly soul. Her love for her family was unparalleled, and she was the cornerstone that kept them all connected. Kathy's husband, Ronnie Payne, remained her steadfast companion and partner in all of life's adventures. Her daughters, Ellen (Eric) Waller and Emily (Adam) Cheaney, were her pride and joy, and she reveled in every opportunity to support and celebrate their achievements. Kathy's joy was multiplied with the arrival of each grandchild: Elodie Kate Waller, Ericson Thomas Waller, Tavie Manton Cheaney, and Goldie Everly Cheaney. She is also survived by her step-son, Michael Andrew (Ashley) Payne.
Kathy was the cherished sister to Henry, Marty, and Jamie Hilyer, and she held fond memories of her late father, James Earl Hilyer, her mother, Sara Jo Bethune, her step-daughter, Kelly Lee Payne, her brother, Rodney Hilyer, and her grandparents, Tavie and Price Nunn, who all preceded her in death.
Her zest for life was evident in her many interests. Kathy's love for her grandchildren was profound. A devoted pet owner, her dog Roo was a constant source of joy and companionship. Kathy had a talent for crochet, often creating beautiful pieces for her loved ones. An avid shopper, she had a keen eye for finding treasures. Her love of fishing brought her peace and tranquility, while her cooking was a testament to her ability to create warmth and comfort through food.
Kathy's sense of humor was legendary; she was quite the prankster, always ready with a joke or a playful trick to lighten the mood. Her laughter was infectious, and her presence could brighten the darkest of days.
The void left by Kathy's passing will be deeply felt by her family and friends. Yet, they take comfort in knowing that her legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will live on in the hearts of those she touched. Kathy's life was a tapestry of joy, compassion, and humor, woven through the lives of those around her.
As we bid farewell to Kathy Hilyer Payne, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest. Her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us, and her memory will be treasured forever. Kathy's family finds solace in the countless memories they shared, and in the knowledge that her love will continue to surround them, just as it always has.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Kathy Hilyer Payne.
What’s your fondest memory of Kathy?
What’s a lesson you learned from Kathy?
Share a story where Kathy's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Kathy you’ll never forget.
How did Kathy make you smile?