Shelia Long (Little) Payne

Shelia Ann Little Long Payne, age 78, went home to be with her Lord on Sunday, July 12, 2020. The family will receive friends at Belk Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 15 from 5:00PM until 7:00PM.  A graveside service will be held at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Charlotte, NC on Friday July, 17th at 11:00am.

Born in Mecklenburg County, NC on November 29, 1941, she was the daughter of the late Ward and Janie Price Little. Affectionately known as Ms. Shelia, she operated Noah’s Ark in Darlington for many years. Not only did she take care of children physically, but spiritually as well. She taught many about God’s love. She also witnessed to adults, frequently handing out Daily Bread devotionals and ministering to the elderly at the Carriage House and other local nursing homes. She was a member of Faith Covenant Church for almost 40 years.

But don’t let the “church-lady” stereotype fool you, Mrs. Sheila loved sports and was very competitive. In addition to being the “free-throw” champion in high school, to table tennis champion at Erskine College and winning a silver medal in the SC senior Olympics, she also bowled and played tennis.

Surviving are her daughters, Kimberly Ann (Mike) Capistrant of Rutherfordton, NC, Tammy Ayala of Florence, her grandchildren, whom she enjoyed “day-trips” with, Janie Wagner, Hannah Wagner, Jocelyn Ayala and Shawn Capistrant, and a sister-in-law, Frances Little.

Memorials may be made to 606 McKeithan Road  Florence,SC  29501 to help with final expenses.

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