Edith Mae Payne, 100, of Owensboro, passed away on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at the Hermitage Care and Rehabilitation. She was born on June 27, 1926 in Hancock County to the late Benjamin and Alice Board Early. Edith was a member of Blessed Mother Catholic Church and a founding member of the original KWC Panther Express. Edith left school at the of age of 14, after the passing of her father, to work for J.J. Newberry’s and the to General Electric, after completing her GED, she went to work at Hillcrest Nursing Home and then later on to Private Duty Nursing.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 43 years, James B. Payne, her daughter-in-law, Karen Payne and her grandson, Jeremy Payne. Her siblings included Lilly, Mason, Benny, Bertha, Betty, Annie, Nannie, and Carol Thomes Early.
She is survived by two sons, James E. Payne and Carroll Phillip “CP” Payne; two grandchildren, Matthew Payne (Jill) and Whitney Payne Murphy (Jeremy).
Edith’s two sons would say that Her’s was the “go to” house growing up where you could always go and have great food at any time and the neighborhood friends and family always knew that fact! She was very thankful for her wonderful neighbors, as they were more like family and always looked after her.
She was a “Big Blue Nation Fan” and followed UK Basketball and KWC Basketball. Edith (MeeMa) didn’t miss many games of her grandchildren, and later followed her great- grandchildren’s soccer, baseball, and basketball games no matter what the weather.
Some fun facts to know about Edith:
– Made the very best biscuits from scratch and incredible Christmas candy enjoyed by all.
– Has an amazing “green thumb” and loved to play in her garden with her flowers.
– She was 97 years young before she ever broke a bone and broke five at once in her own home.
– She was still trimming her own yard with a weed eater at 95.
– Enjoyed going to gambling Casino’s while playing only .25 slot machines.
– She didn’t really like to drive, never drove over a bridge, nor pumped her own gas.
– During her residence at the Hermitage, she participated in two Senior Olympic Games in Bowling Green at the age of 98 & 99.
– Edith was inducted into the prestigious Hermitage Hall of Fame, which hangs in the gallery for all to admire. A very special thanks to the incredible staff at the Hermitage for their care and special kindness shown to her everyday of her journey as she is forever grateful.
Edith would also like to thank all of her beloved family members, including the entire Lucas Family members for welcoming her into their hearts and homes! A very special thanks to Margaret Ann, my niece, who was like a daughter and blessing to me!
Edith would want you to remember how joyful her life was, as she was ready to go home to the Lord and of course James.
Services will be at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, July 27, 2026 at the Chapel of Resurrection Cemetery.