Mrs. Odessa Payne
Odessa Payne was born in Smiley to Walter G. and Quincy Erwin on Oct. 26, 1947, and went to be with our good Lord on May 2, 2026.
As the youngest of 13 children, Odessa grew up in a bustling household in Texas, which helped shape her spirited personality and deep appreciation for family.
Throughout her life, Odessa’s journey took her across the western United States and throughout the heart of the Lone Star State, as she lived in California and various regions across Texas.
Professionally, she served her community with compassion as a school nurse in Milano, while simultaneously remaining a deeply devoted homemaker, providing a foundation of love and care for her growing family.
Her husband, Arthur, affectionately called her “Sweetie,” a term of endearment but she gained the name “Sweetie” to everyone else when her first grandchild was looking for her at school, crying “Where’s my Sweetie?”
A devoted woman of faith, she was an active member of the Milam County Cowboy Church. Her love for Jesus was evident in her daily life, and she cherished the deep bonds she shared with her church family.
Those who knew her will fondly remember her infectious spunk, her warm smile, and the laughter that filled every room she entered. Though her presence is greatly missed, her loved ones find comfort in knowing she rests in God’s eternal embrace.
Odessa was preceded in death by the love of her life, Arthur Payne; her parents and numerous siblings.
Her legacy of love continues through her children, Deanna (Sean) Nixon, Art (Tanya) Payne, Kevin (Shannon) Payne, Karen (Terry) Beck, and Keith (Devon) Payne.
She is also survived by a large and loving extended family, including numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends who were blessed to have known her.
Viewing will be at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 7.
The service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, May 8, at Milam County Cowboy Church in Rockdale. Burial will follow at Sand Grove Cemetery in Milano.