Payne, Melissa Atkins

Melissa Atkins Payne, 50 of Max Meadows, went home to be with her Heavenly Father on Monday, November 7th, 2016 at her home. She was born in Pearisburg on January 6th, 1966, and was the daughter of the late Brenda Jones Atkins Oakes.

In addition to her mother, Missy was preceded in death by a longtime companion, Billy Lynn Smith.

Missy found the most happiness in time spent with her family and her grandchildren. She was an outstanding cook, and enjoyed feeding friends, family, and anyone in need. Her heart and soul adored the ocean, especially having her toes in the sand. She also enjoyed being outdoors, gardening, pets, and her flowers.

She leaves behind her husband, Chester Payne, Jr.; a son, Christopher Todd Quesenberry; a daughter, Kerie LeeAnn Benson; two granddaughters, Isabella L. Benson, Alexandria L. Benson; two brothers, Brian Atkins, Frankie Atkins; a sister, Tammy Atkins; and a stepfather, David Oakes.

Her family finds peace in God’s words, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under Heaven; a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill; and a time to heal; a time to break down; and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.”

The family will receive friends at Riffe’s Funeral Chapel Friday from 10 AM until just prior to the funeral service, which will be held Friday, November 11th, 2016 at 12 noon in the Chapel of Riffe’s Funeral Service in Narrows with Pastor Brett McCleary officiating. Burial will follow in Sunrise Memorial Gardens in Rich Creek. In lieu of flowers, Missy’s request was for memorial contributions to be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The family is being served by Riffe’s Funeral Service in Narrows, (540) 726-2442, and online at riffefuneralservice.com.