Lillian Joy Payne

Lillian Joy Payne, known affectionately as Joy, was a beloved educator and pianist who brought joy and to all those around her. She was born on July 4, 1935, in San Antonio Texas. She spread kindness and knowledge throughout her remarkable life. It is with heavy hearts that we announce her passing on October 6, 2023 in New Braunfels, Texas.

For many years, Joy dedicated her career to teaching school, primarily kindergarten. Her passion for education shone bright as she nurtured young minds and guided them towards their potential. She retired from Calallen ISD in 1990 but continued to leave a lasting impact on generations of students. Joy played the piano and shared the gift of music with her kindergarteners, teaching them sweet songs that brought smiles to their faces and left an impressionable mark on their hearts.

Outside of the classroom, Joy's love for music extended to her involvement in her local church. She played the piano for her Sunday school class and occasionally filled in as a substitute during worship services. Her melodies lifted spirits and provided solace to all who listened.

Joy's faith was an integral part of her life. At the tender age of 10, she embraced Jesus Christ as her savior. Throughout her journey, she embodied the virtues described in Proverbs 31: 25-31—a virtuous woman who exemplified strength and dignity while spreading love and wisdom to those around her.

A vibrant soul who cherished her church, friends, and family above all else, Joy was a beacon of light to those who cared for her during the last three and a half years at Gruene Senior Living. Her genuine warmth and compassionate nature touched the lives of both residents and staff members alike.

After retiring from teaching, Joy pursued another passion by starting a small jewelry business. Additionally, she actively engaged in various social groups, such as the Christian Women Club, APEC, and the Corpus Christi chapter of API. Joy delighted in being part of the Red Hatters and looked forward to their monthly Birthday Luncheon gatherings.

In 2010, Joe and Joy move to New Braunfels to spend more time with their grandkids.  When Joe passed away in 2013, Joy moved into an independent living community where and got involved in all their social opportunities and thrived as she continued to be a bright light in her community.  She continued to contribute her talents as a pianist and played for their Sunday morning worship services.

Joy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joe Allen Payne. She also mourned the loss of her parents, Lillian and Ed Hogan; her brothers, Ed Hogan and Darrell Hogan. The loss of her grandson Jacob Payne and nephew Mike Hogan weighs heavily on the hearts of those who loved her.

Joy's legacy lives on through the family she leaves behind. She is survived by her daughter Tammera and husband Andy Schultz; her son, Bart Payne; and her daughter, Joy and husband Reese Mitchell. 
Joy's love extended to her cherished grandchildren: Lillian Salvadori (Vittorio), Andrew Schutz (Katie), Jack Schultz, Nicholas Payne (Monique), Lauran Snyder (Ashton), Megan Green (Tim), as well as great-grandchildren Phoenix Payne and Olivia Snyder.

To honor Joy's life, a visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM on October 16, 2023, at Annaville Baptist Church located at 4025 Violet Rd in Corpus Christi, Texas. Following the visitation will be a Funeral Service at 11:30 AM at the same location. Lastly, a Graveside Service will take place at Coastal Bend State Veteran Cemetery at 1:00 PM.

Lillian Joy Payne touched countless lives with her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith. May we carry forward the light she shared with us and continue to spread joy in honor of her memory. She will forever remain in our hearts as a nurturing mother, grandmother, sister, neighbor, and friend.

In lieu of flowers, the family Has asked to consider making a donation to Hope Hospice in New Braunfels.