Kathryn Louise Payne Player, 72, of Safford, passed away Nov. 23. Kae was born Sept. 16, 1946, in Morenci, to Glen Z. Payne and Bunnell Layton.
As a child, the family lived in Duncan and Pleasant Grove, Utah, but returned to Safford, where she graduated from Safford High School in 1964. While attending Eastern Arizona College, she met her eternal companion, David Player, and created a wonderful life together.
They blessed the community and their church by sharing their musical talents. Kae was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served in many callings in Relief Society, Young Women’s and the Primary organizations and as an organist for almost 60 years. After David’s retirement, they had the opportunity to serve as temple workers in the Mesa Arizona Temple and The Gila Valley Arizona Temple.
Since David’s passing five years ago, her health had been failing and she passed away peacefully at her son’s home surrounded her loving family. We know she’ll miss her family but is now pain-free and happy to be reunited with David.
Kae is survived by her children, Mike (Tammy) Player, of Victoria, Texas, Melissa (Chad) Brackman, of Gilbert, Marcy (Brandon) Skinner, of Gilbert, Matt (Kristen) Player, of Safford, and Mark Player, of Gilbert; 13 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Laurie Player, of Globe, and nephew, Eric (Ashley) Walker, of Thatcher.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband, David, grandson, Bryce, son-in-law, Scott Ponder, parents, Glen and Bunnell Payne, brother, Larry Payne, and sister-in-law, Sammie Thomas.
Viewing will be Thursday, Nov. 29, from 6-8 p.m. at the McDougal’s Caldwell Funeral Chapel and one hour prior to services at the church. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 30, at the Safford Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Interment will be in the Safford Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the direction of McDougal’s Caldwell Funeral Chapel & Gila Valley Crematory. Online condolences may be extended at www.caldwellfuneralchapel.com.
