Elizabeth "Ann" Carter Payne

Elizabeth “Ann” Carter Payne of Bedford passed away on Saturday, August 8, 2020. She was born in Bedford County on August 17, 1944, daughter of the late Oren A. Carter and Rachel Spradlin Carter. God gained a soldier, yes that’s right a soldier. Even though Ann was never in the military, she was always fighting a battle. Whether it be with friends, a family member or her long history of illness, Ann continued fighting. Ann was known for her braveness, stubbornness and never giving up once she set her mind to it. Even until her last days on earth she never gave up without a fight. We will always cherish memories and use Ann’s strength to guide us through each and every day. She will be remembered by her determination, strong willpower, and her love for her family. Ann was a loving daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, & friend. She is survived by her daughter, Kathy Thomas; sons, Charles (Pumpkin) Clark and Michael Carter; two grandsons, Noah and Nicholas Thomas; granddaughter, Emily Steen; three great-grandchildren, Hunter, Conner and Parker; three brothers; three sisters and one deceased sister; and dear friend Edward (Mann) Gilmore; and a host of special friends. “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.” John 14:1-4 NIV Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 A graveside service will be held at Holy Land Cemetery for immediate family only. Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.