Mary Elizabeth McCall Payne, affectionately known as Lip or Liz, passed away at her home on March 22, 2026, at the age of 92. Born on April 26, 1933, in Alabama, Mary was a devoted wife, mother, and friend. She married Johnny ‘J.C.’ Payne just two weeks after they met, and together they built a life in their cherished log home from 1976 to 2019.
Mary was an avid gardener, transforming her yard into a beautiful botanical garden. Her greatest earthly treasures were her family and friends, and her faith in her Savior Jesus was most important in her life.
She is survived by her daughter, Debbie Robbins and her husband Mike; her sons, Darrell Payne and Bruce Payne with his wife Denise, all residing in Pontotoc. She also leaves behind her brother, James W. ‘Bud’ McCall and his wife Joyce; her sisters, Betty Webb, Margie Black, and Brenda McCall, all of Georgia; and a large extended family of grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Johnny ‘J.C.’ Payne, her parents, James A. and Loyal Meadows McCall, and her sisters, Doris Harrell, Linda Odom, and Lena Brown.
A graveside service will be held at 11AM on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Pleasant Grove Cemetery, with Bro. Justin Varnon officiating. Baldwin Memorial Funeral Home of Pontotoc is handling the arrangements.
Pallbearers will include Jered Newell, Patrick Newell, C.J. Newell, Brent Payne, Anthony Robbins, Shane Metcalf, Parker Sewell, and Russell Graham.
