Lara Payne

December 18, 1962 - January 25, 2021

Facebook

Nalley-Pickle & Welch Chapel

Monday 3/15, 5:00 pm

Lara Genevieve Payne, 58 of Midland, passed away on Monday, January 25, 2021. Lara was born on December 18, 1962 in Chicago, IL to Nora and Dave Brazda.

In Lara’s early life she was an athlete and a cheer leader amongst many other things. She met her husband in high school and was married in 1982 at the age of 19. She was married just shy of 39 years. She was a stay at home mom to two children until both children were in school. Lara was an avid reader and a lifelong pursuer of knowledge and loved to travel. She graduated from Texas Tech University with honors with a degree in English Literature. She taught English at Midland Lee Freshman High School, Early College High School, followed by Trinity High School. Lara was a beloved teacher, who inspired her students with her passion and genuine love for her students. This dedication to teaching, led to her receiving many awards, including the shining teacher award, of which she was most proud. Whether it was a student, friend or family member, Lara gave her much sought after attention/advice to any and all – filled with love and wisdom. She was a beacon of light and an immense joy to be around, to know her was to love her.

Lara is survived by her husband Edward Payne and two children, Jake and Rachael Payne. A celebration of life will be held at 5:00pm, Monday, March 15, 2021 at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home Chapel.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.

Nalley-Pickle & Welch Chapel

Monday 3/15, 5:00 pm

Lara Genevieve Payne, 58 of Midland, passed away on Monday, January 25, 2021. Lara was born on December 18, 1962 in Chicago, IL to Nora and Dave Brazda. In Lara’s early life she was an athlete and a cheer leader amongst many other things. She met her husband in high school and was married inContinue Reading

See Condolences

To teach us to touch a heart forever. You touched many lives and I’m so grateful you touched two of my three sons at Lee Freshmen. Rest In Peace sweet friend you are so missed.

We were MISD English teachers serving on committees together for two years and then in a benevolent twist of fate, you became my department head at Trinity. We all loved being around you, as you brought light, positive energy and compassion into any room you entered. We are all blessed that our paths crossed the road walked by Lara Payne.

Thank you for being the best teacher! You will be forever missed! Class of 2019

There are no words that can express how much I already miss you my sweet sweet friend. We had some great times, lots of laughs, and we gained knowledge from each other constantly. The world is not the same place without you in it. I must say that there is an emptiness in my heart now that you have gone. I miss you . . . I will not say goodbye because that is too permanent, and so I will just say I will see you again soon. May God bless your family and know they are in my prayers.

Beloved teacher and inspiration

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Mrs Payne was an inspiration to many and her legacy will live on through those who knew her. Gone far too soon, love you Mrs Payne!

My Sister, my Friend, my Confidant. You always made this world a better place just being you, and brought the warmest smile and joy to all that knew you! It is so long for now but not goodbye. Love Teresa

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.