Brenda Faye (Smith) Payton

Brenda Faye (Smith) Payton, age 78, of the Union Grove Community in Jemison, Alabama, passed away peacefully at her residence on May 22, 2026.

Born in Chilton County on December 23, 1947, Brenda was the daughter of the late Merle Smith and the late Joyce Brasher Smith. She worked as a bookkeeper for EL Klinner Furniture Company before dedicating much of her life to the people and passions she loved most.

Brenda often said she had two callings in life: her family and gospel music. A gifted pianist, she played at countless convention singings, revivals, weddings, and funerals throughout the years. She faithfully served as pianist for several churches around Chilton County and shared her talent by teaching piano to many students, making it her mission to leave Chilton County with good gospel piano players. Her love for the Lord was evident in every aspect of her life as she faithfully taught Sunday School for many years.

In addition to her musical gifts, Brenda was a skilled seamstress who enjoyed needlework and art. Above all, she was a devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished grandmother who always cared deeply for her family.

She is survived by her husband, Jeff Payton of Jemison; daughter, Joy Parker of Jemison; sons, Christopher (Jennifer) Morris of Dothan and Jason (Tonya) Morris of Jemison; stepson, Phillip Morris of Houston, Texas; grandchildren, Daniel Parker, Samuel Parker, Levi Morris, Cody (LaDonna) Morris, and Gabriel Morris;  her beloved dog, Lady; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Merle and Joyce Smith; brother, Melvin Smith; and son-in-law, Allen Parker.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, after 6:00 p.m. at True Hope Baptist Church in Jemison, Alabama.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. from True Hope Baptist Church with Rev. Stoney Barbee, Rev. John Pullen, and Rev. Reburn Dailey officiating.

Burial will follow in Union Grove Community Cemetery in Jemison, Alabama.

“I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.”
— Psalm 104:33 (KJV)

Final care and arrangements are entrusted to Ellison Memorial Funeral Home of Clanton, Alabama.