Dorothy Mae Payne, born Dorothy Mae Coleman on September 3, 1946, in the tranquil surroundings of Herndon, Kentucky, left this world peacefully on July 12, 2026. Her 79 years were imbued with kindness, tireless devotion, and a resilient spirit that touched the hearts of all who knew her.

Dorothy’s journey began in a loving family, laying the foundation for a life filled with compassion and connection. As a daughter of Freddie and Lezora Dillard Coleman, Dorothy carried forward their legacy of hard work and strength. Her beloved siblings—Katherine Coleman, Lillian Marie (Ron) Patillo, Bernita (Bertram) Boyd, Paul (Laura) Coleman, Walter (Floretta) Coleman, Charlie Coleman, and Michael (Yvonne) Coleman—survived Dorothy, sharing decades of laughter, courage, and unbreakable familial bonds. She also lovingly remembered those who passed before her: her husband James Payne, sister Virginia Bacon, brothers James Coleman and Freddie William Coleman.

Dorothy’s nurturing heart extended to her own children. She was a devoted mother to Kimberly Daniels, Jeffery Daniels, Lezora Coleman, and Katheryn (Demarco) Garland. She was a devoted grandmother to Keonna Williams, Victor Corbin, Tyler Freeman, Nautica Outlaw, Kobe Dillard, Jareonna Daniels, Jaden Daniels, and Zoe Coleman; and great grandmother to 3.