Regina Ann Payne

How exceptional must a person be to receive a birthday gift from God himself? Exceptional enough to draw complete strangers to share their innermost thoughts and feelings, to leave alifelong impression on people who she met but once, and to leave those who came to give her comfort feeling comforted themselves? Regina Ann Payne (formerly Haynes) was one such rare and exceptional person. God gave her the gift of physical strength and spiritual triumph over the course of her seven-year battle with cancer before summoning her before Him. She heeded His summon quietly and peacefully during the early hours of May 19, 2021.

Regina was born May 18, 1955, in Omaha, Nebraska to Arthur and Betty Haynes. From a young age, she was a friend to everyone in her life and was a perfect example of patience. She graduated from Technical High School and attended Creighton University in Omaha. She worked as a pharmaceutical representative, and then for many years as a receptionist and customer service manager which were more befitting of her warm personality. Regina was known for both her inner and outer beauty and was crowned as Miss Black Tech in her highschool’s annual beauty pageant.

Passionate about her faith in Jesus, Regina always had a praise report to share with anyone she spoke to. She was a devoted and active member of her church in whatever city she resided in. Immediately before being summoned Home, she was a long-standing member of St. John United Methodist Church where she was a member of the Praise and Worship team. Regina loved singing, music, travel, and dancing. Most of all, she loved her family and was a devoted wife, mother, nana, and sister. She was married for 47 years to Jesse Payne of Margate, FL who lovingly cared for her in the final stages of her illness.

They shared four children who carry on her legacy: Robert Payne, Yolanda Payne-Jameau (Maxime), Jesse Payne III, and Jarred Payne. Additionally, she had three grandchildren Mia and Alan Jameau and Jarred Payne, Jr.

Regina also leaves to mourn siblings Brinda Council (William), Arthur Haynes, Jr., Julie Davis(Shaun), and Terence Haynes along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by parents Arthur Haynes and Betty Haynes (formerly Womack) and brother Keith Haynes.