Thursday, April 25, 2024
Teryl Jeanne (Johnson) Payne, 83, passed peacefully on Feb. 6, 2022. She was born Jan. 24, 1939, in Lead, South Dakota, to Dessa (Shaul) and Lawrence Johnson.
In 1944, the family moved to Shelton, Washington. Teryl graduated in 1957 from Irene S. Reed High School, where she was an honor student and active in student life.
In 1960, Teryl married Paul D. Payne. They raised their two children, Larry and Melody, in Edmonds. Teryl and Paul owned and operated the Uneeda Pizza Company at Edmonds' Firdale Village.
Following Paul's death, Teryl became the director of registration for Central Washington University's Edmonds campus. She thoroughly enjoyed working with students, and gained their respect and appreciation.
Teryl was a talented artist who wove creativity, color, and design throughout home, garden, holidays, and many family celebrations. She will forever be remembered for her vibrant energy, dancing, infectious laugh, and all the love and support she gave to her parents, children, siblings, extended family, friends, and neighbors.
Teryl is survived by her daughter, Melody Anderson (husband Robb); her son, Larry; siblings Kent Lawrence Johnson (Sia Vladowski); Billee Sue Irwin (Dean); and Robyn Lynne Johnson (Peter Newland).
She was predeceased by her parents and her sister, Gwen. A celebration of Teryl's life is planned for later this summer in Seattle. Remembrances may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society in her memory.
