Terri T. Payne

Born to Clyde and Vonnie Tucker, Terri lived in many places, such as Chile, where her father was a missionary, and it would always remain one of her favorite places. Later, she attended Western Carolina University and was a member of Alpha Xi Delta Epsilon Gamma Chapter. While at WCU, she met the love of her life, John, and the two were wed in 1975. After graduating, she taught foreign languages in Wake County before transferring to Lee County, giving over 40 years of service as an educator and translator in the public school system. She valued education and encouraged all her students to be the best they could possibly be. From trips to numerous countries, to tutoring, and mentoring other teachers, her impact will be remembered for a long time to come.

She is survived by her husband, John; sons, Josh (Whitney) & Justin; a grandson, Fletcher; her mother Vonnie; siblings, Tom, Mike, and Eric; brothers-in-law Ben Garner, Jerry & Jeff Payne; along with numerous nieces and nephews that loved her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her father, Clyde; sister, Tina; niece, Stephanie; and her father-in-law and mother-in-law John & Irene Payne.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 1:00 PM, at Lemon Springs United Methodist Church, 7225 Lemon Spring Road, Sanford, NC 27332. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall beginning one hour prior to the service.