Mary Ellen Payne, age 84, of Coal City, IL passed away on Friday, February 2, 2024 at Lightways Hospice in Joliet.

She was born in Joliet, IL on April 10, 1939 to Dominic J. and Agnes A. (nee Ryan) Vacca.  She attended local catholic schools before going to Coal City High School, graduating with the class of 1957.  She married Melvin B. Payne on November 21, 1964 at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Coal City. Together they raised their daughter, Ellen.

Mary Ellen was a great lady who would be happy to help anyone that she could. She was a devoted wife and mother. She was an avid crafter and could be seen selling her wares at the local craft fairs.  She was known to the kids in the area as "The Sports Table Lady".  Mary Ellen was very generous and would give away as many of her crafts as she sold.

She is survived by her husband, Melvin B. Payne; her daughter, Ellen (Timothy) McMaster of Wilmington; her sister, Agnes Flint of Coal City and her nephews, Keith (Dulcie) Powell of Diamond, Roger Flint Jr. of Coal City and nieces, Stephanie (Terry) Gill of Coal City and Shannon Flint of IN.

In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

Visitation will be on Monday, February 5th, 2024 at Ferrari Funeral Services, 1044 Ferrari Drive, Coal City, IL. 60416 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Service at 12:00 noon with Deacon William Dunn officiating. Burial will follow at Braceville Gardner Cemetery.

Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guestbook at www.ferrarifuneral.com

Ferrari Funeral Services are entrusted with arrangements.