Letha Renee Payne

Letha Renee Payne, age 73 passed away at home on Saturday, July 18, 2026. Letha, affectionately known as Renee to family and friends, was born on December 9, 1952 in Springfield, Ohio. Renee enlisted in the United States Air Force and dutifully served our country from 1973 until her honorable discharge in 1981 with the rank of Sergeant. During her enlistment she received a Longevity Service Ribbon; National Defense Service Medal; Good Conduct Medal and Outstanding Unit Award.

Throughout the years Renee continued to spend her life in the service of others working with various ministries and community outreach programs. In 2023 she retired from Greater Dayton RTA after 15 years, where she also received innumerable commendations for her exemplary work. In her final years, her greatest love was truly time spent with her grandsons. Renee was a devoted member of Encounter Church Global Outreach Ministry in Dayton. When health permitted, Renee found great comfort and enjoyment in fellowship with her Encounter Church family.

Renee was preceded in death by her mother: Beulah Stevenson (Springfield, Ohio); father: Charles Gilbert (Springfield, Ohio); sister: Pamela West (Alaska); sister: Nadine Stevenson (O'Fallon, Illinois); an aunt and three uncles.

Renee is survived by her Daughter: Nikki Callahan (Springfield, Ohio); Son: Bryan Joshua Payne (Dayton, Ohio); Grandson: Mason Callahan (Springfield, Ohio); Grandson: Jeremiah Joshua Payne (Dayton, Ohio); Grandson: Jayzion Michael Payne (Dayton, Ohio); Grandson: Josiah Benjamin Payne (Dayton, Ohio); one aunt; two nephews; numerous cousins and countless chosen family and friends.