Carolyn Marie Payne

Carolyn Marie Payne, born on July 24, 1941, in Yuma, Colorado, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2025, at the age of 83 at the Wray Community District Hospital. Carolyn was the beloved daughter of Emory Eugene Swan and Gladys Murrain. She spent her early years on the family farm south of Yuma, where she developed a deep love for ranching and farming.

After graduating from Yuma High School in 1959, Carolyn pursued her passion for accounting at Northeastern Junior College, graduating in 1963. She returned to Yuma to establish Carol’s Tax and Bookkeeping Services, a testament to her dedication and entrepreneurial spirit.

In August 1963, Carolyn met Larry Payne at the Yuma County Fair, and they married on March 1, 1964. Together, they moved to the family farm in Cope, where they raised their four children: Randy, Lanny, Kim, and Terry. Carolyn and Larry built a thriving dairy and farm, working side by side for 59 years.

Carolyn was a founding member of Women Involved in Farming Economics (WIFE) and played a significant role in the National Farmers Organization (NFO), advocating for fair pricing for local farmers. Her career included clerking for Michal Auction and working at the Akron NRCS office. She served as the Office Manager for the Cope Conservation District until her passing.

Carolyn's life was filled with love for her family and community. She enjoyed bowling, 4H activities with her children, reading, sewing, and quilting. Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who were the pride and joy of her life.

Carolyn is survived by her children Randy (Shannon), Lanny (Connie), Kim, and Terry (Candace), along with 10 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and her sister-in-law Sharon Waknin. She was predeceased by her husband Larry, her parents, and many cherished family members.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on July 28, 2025, at 11:00 AM at The Cope Cemetery, followed by a lunch at the Cope Recreation Hall. Carolyn will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to her family, her community, and the farming industry.