Obituary of Minnie Mae Payne

Minnie Mae Payne, age 84, completed her assignment and was peacefully called home to the Lord on September 14, 2020, surrounded by the love of her family just after relocating to Falls Church, VA.  Minnie was born on August 8, in Saluda, SC to the late Orine and Sam Daniels. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two sisters: Rosa Mae Wheeler and Betty Whorton, and three brothers: Willis Daniels, Otis Daniels (O.D.) and Talib Mohammad.

In her early years Minnie moved from Saluda, SC to Washington, DC.  She was educated at Dunbar High School and also attended the Technical Institute on Pennsylvania Ave. N.W. in DC on Capitol Hill. Upon completion of her studies she began her career at the National Archives in Document Restoration. Minnie was selected in 1975 (est.) to participate on the Archivist’s team to restore the originals of the U.S. Bill of Rights and the Declaration of Independence, prior to them being placed in the Rotunda at the National Archives. 

Minnie was married to Mahlon Payne in Washington, DC on December 23, 1952.  Through this marriage they raised six children. She was loving, caring, encouraging and a nurturer to us all, even more so with her grand and great grandchildren.   She was very supportive in our dreams and aspirations, encouraging us every step of the way. In December of 1981, Minnie moved to Atlanta, GA after leaving her position at the National Archives.  

During her time in Georgia, Minnie worked as a personal care provider through-out the Atlanta Metro area.  This was her ministry, and a career she truly enjoyed. Minnie’s love of the Lord and all God’s children, young or old, was witnessed in her passion for helping and caring for others. 

In April 1996, she joined Green Pastures Christian Ministries in Decatur, GA, and actively served on the Welcome Board (God’s Helpers) as an usher and greeter.  Minnie was also a member of ROSA (Reaching out to Senior Adults); Green Pastures Women of Grace; Bridge Builders, Intercessory Prayer Ministry and the Care Givers Ministry.  Minnie was an honorary Mother of the church.  She was a woman of Faith in her daily walk with God, and a beacon of light to her family, friends and community.  Minnie loved to travel, and was blessed to travel the world, her favorite vacation place was Aruba.

Her DMV family and friends cherished her visits back to the area for events, celebrations and other special occasions.  In August, God allowed her to return to Northern, VA, to be with her daughters Renee and Octavia, and her son Mahlon, Jr. They made life comfortable and peaceful for her from her arrival until her departure.  She was surrounded with family and all their love.

Minnie leaves her loving memories to be cherished by her sisters: Annie Stewart of Washington, DC, Helen Ray Lake of Oxon Hill, MD,  her children: Mahlon, Payne Jr. (Jackie) of Washington, DC , Renee Lawrence of Falls Church, VA , Octavia Payne of Washington, DC, Allen (Tammi) of Conyers, GA, Tracy (Karen) of Waldorf, MD, and Rajsaan of Ellenwood, GA;  Her grandchildren: Robert, Nianda (Keean), Micah, Amina, Keyonte, Mariah, A.J., Melvin, and Aleeza; and great grandchildren: Emoni, Corey, Yamina, Renea, Micah Allen, Natavious, Rashaad, Malon, Lil Melvin, Nikole, Mahogony, Kimoni, Kai, Ava, Kimmy, Ary. 

Minnie was a treasure to all that knew her. We will remember our beloved mother as an angel on earth. Today, we honor the life of a strong woman who showed her love as a devoted mother, sister, aunt, friend and caregiver.  We will remember Minnie Mae Payne as a woman who was deeply loved and cherished by many.