Myrtis Nichols Payne

Mrs. Myrtis Nichols Payne, age 99, passed away Wednesday, May 08, 2019 in Rayville, following a lengthy illness.

She was born on January 9, 1920 to Robert Lee and Ida Miller Nichols. Miss. Myrtis, as everyone called her, was preceded in death by her husband, William Marvin Payne; son-in-law, Tom Whatley; granddaughter, Britney Raborn; her parents; all seven of her siblings; and a special niece, Chrystal Futch.

She is survived by her daughters, Merle Raborn (Ken) and Linda Whatley Rice (Henry); grandsons, Tom, Scott (Jamie), and Jonathan Raborn; granddaughter, Amanda Whatley Power; special niece, Sandra Johnston (Charles); and 13 great grandchildren.

Her life of 99 years, lead her through many adventures and journeys, but each one always leading her back to her home north of Rayville. She was a faithful member of Boeuf River Baptist Church for many years, singing in the choir, teaching Sunday School, and doing whatever was needed.

At the age of 48 she and her sister, Nickie Yelverton, purchased a ladies apparel shop, renamed Sandra’s Fashion. 

She retired from there at the age of 82. However, she continued to have a lot of input into the business until it closed.

Funeral services were held Saturday, May 11, 2019 at the Boeuf River Baptist Church with Bro. Johnny Hoychick officiating, followed by a burial service at Stevenson Cemetery under the direction of Brown-Holley Funeral Home, Rayville.

Pallbearers were Tom Raborn, Scott Raborn, Jonathan Raborn, Peyton Raborn, Larry Joe Nichols, Jacob Power, and Jude Johnston.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or a charity of your choice.

Condolences may be left at brownholleyfuneralhomes.com.