Ruth Gibson Payne

Ruth Gibson Payne, 81, the best and most devoted wife in the world to John Kenneth “Ken” Payne, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, unexpectedly. 

Born in Walhalla, SC, she was a daughter of the late George and Nannie Bibb Gibson. 

Ruth met Ken at work, after dating for a bit, they got married at the courthouse and moved in together that evening, and starting their wonderful love story that would continue for over 48 years. She was the best daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, and friend. She was the most loving and giving person; always the first one to offer to help. 

Ruth was well known for making the best coconut cake in the world. She loved working out at Curves. She and Ken loved to travel together after retirement, both internationally and domestically; often having planned vacations around the closest Curves location. 

Her legacy of love and compassion will forever be carried on in the hearts of her loving husband, Ken; her much loved step-son John “Shannon” Payne; adoring step-grandson, Garrett Richard Payne; her sister, Bessie Fowler and husband, Jerry Fowler; special family and best friend, Pat Dockery; as well as many nieces, nephews, and other loving family and friends. 

In addition to her parents, Ruth was proceeded in death by her brothers, M.C., Harold, James, Frank, Alvin, Charles, and Cecil Gibson. 

A graveside service will be held on Monday, May 8, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. at Graceland East Memorial Park. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Shriner’s Hospital by visiting https://donate.lovetotherescue.org, Meyer Center by visiting www.meyercenter.org, or the American Red Cross at www.redcross.org. 

Your favorite memories of Ruth may be shared with the family by visiting www.thomasmcafee.com.