Helen J. Payne

Helen Jennette Payne, 88, of La Plata, Maryland, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family, on June 2, 2024. 

Born on August 30, 1935, in Indian Head, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late John and Anna S. Reese.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert C. Payne; son, John R. Payne; brothers David J. Reese and Thomas G. Reese and sister, Mary Ann Steed.  She is survived by her son, Michael D. Payne (Terri); daughter, Julie A. McCowan (Joel); granddaughters, Jordan and Jenna McCowan; grandsons, Sean McCowan (Jaime) and Shane McCowan (Launa); 5 great grandchildren; sister, Joan R. Sine; brothers, William R. Reese, John Reese, Jr. and James A. Reese; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Helen was a proud graduate of Lackey High School and attended the Salisbury State Teachers college before marrying the love of her life, Bobby Payne and starting a family.  She worked for many years as a dental assistant for Dr. Giguere and Dr. Donaldson Dental office in Bryans Road before working as an office manager for the Mintz and Pincus Dental Group in Waldorf and Oxon Hill, Maryland for over 20 years, as she was lovingly known as “The General”.  She was a loyal fan of the Washington Redskins and the Baltimore Orioles.  Helen loved playing bridge, card games, duck pin bowling, reading, doing crossword puzzles and jigsaw puzzles.  Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her granddaughters, who were the light of her life.  She was greatly loved and respected by all who knew her.

The family will receive friends on Thursday June 13, 2024 from 9 AM until Mass time at 10 AM at the Sacred Heart Church (201 St. Mary’s Ave. LaPlata, MD 20646). Interment to follow at Trinity Memorial Gardens (3221 Mattawoman Beantown Rd. Waldorf, MD 20601).

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice of the Chesapeake or to the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at arehartechols.com

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