Verna Kathryn Payne

Mrs. Verna Kathryn Payne, age 100, of New Liberty passed away Saturday, February 4, 2017, at St.Elizabeth Hospital in Florence. Born November 25, 1916, on her family's farm in New Liberty, she was the daughter of the late Clinton and Lula Lucas Kemper and the widow of William Payne. She was also preceded in death by her brother Clinton Kemper, Jr. Mrs. Payne graduated from New Liberty High School as the class valedictorian and continued her education at Transylvania College where she was a member of the Lambda Omega Sorority. She was an English and history major and taught for over 30 years at Owen County High School, retiring in 1986. After her retirement, she continued to substitute teach into her 80s. She was active in the Owen County Historical Society, Owen County Retired Teachers, Owen County Women's Club and the Owen County Homemakers. Mrs. Payne was also a dedicated member of the New Liberty Christian Church. Surviving are her son and daughter in law, Billy & Linda Payne; her nephew and his wife, Don & June Kemper and her cousins, Yolanda Ellis and Brenda Walker. A host of friends also survive. McDonald & New Funeral Homes are in charge of arrangements. Family will receive friends at the Main Street location on Saturday, February 11, 2017, from 10 am til 1 pm. Funeral services will follow at 1 pm with Bro. Jim Wood presiding. Burial will be in the Poplar Grove Cemetery and memorial contributions may be made to either the Owen County Historica Society or New Liberty Christian Church