JANE JOHNSON PAYNE
Aug. 11, 1945 – June 3, 2023
Jane Johnson-Payne, 77, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at her home in Escondido, California. Jane was born on August 11, 1945, in Gary, Indiana, to Fred and Catherine Johnson. Jane was one of five children, all daughters, and a twin to her sister Jean. The Johnson family moved from Indiana to Calexico, California, in 1946. After graduating from Calexico Union High School, Jane went on to cosmetology school in El Centro, California, and later began her career as a hairstylist and beautician.
Jane graduated from Calexico High School in 1963 and was a very important part of her High School Community. Jane actively participated in student Organizations and Associations committed to a better educational environment. Jane was one of her high school cheerleaders during parades, pep rallies, football games, basketball games, and other events. Jane was there, encouraging and motivating the students to cheer and rally her Calexico High School Bulldogs.
Jane was a member of a group of Calexico High School Girls known as The Mafia. They were a fun-loving group, committed to each other and their community. They would cruise around Calexico in various cars and end up at Owens Drive-In for a coke and a lot of laughs and conversations. The Mafia was very active in High School activities, events and also busy, assisting and helping the High School Administrators and Teachers in whatever they needed.
Jane was happy, always sharing her sparky personality and smile with everyone. Jane was a wonderful caring person, bringing out the very best in everyone. She was loved, respected, and admired. Jane gave of herself to all and made the world a better place. She will be missed.
Jane first met the love of her life, Samuel Payne, in 1966, and they married in 1968 in Chula Vista, California. Jane and Sam lived in several cities but returned to Southern California, where they retired in Escondido, California, not far from all of her sisters. Whether it was just to visit, for lunch, shopping, or going to the casinos, Jane loved to spend time with her sisters. She also really enjoyed traveling, snow skiing, and her rose gardens.
Jane was preceded in death by both her mother and father; and beloved sister, Sandra Johnson-Lizarraga. She is survived by her husband, Samuel Payne; three sisters and their husbands; several nieces and nephews; along with their families. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Celebration of Life Memorial Services will be held on July 8, 2023, at 2pm at the Penasquitos Lutheran Church, 14484 Penasquito Drive, San Diego, CA 92129, (858) 672-3466.