Karen Kay Perkins Payne, age 82, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, in Santa Maria, California. She was born as the youngest of eight siblings on June 27, 1943, in Piper City, Illinois, to Francis and Pauline Perkins. After high school, Karen moved to Los Angeles to help care for her aging parents. She met Richard Payne at California State University, Long Beach, and less than a month after graduating, they married on August 28, 1965. Job opportunities took them to Lompoc, California, Seattle, Washington, and Dahlgren, Virginia. In 1977, they settled once again in Lompoc, California, where they lived for the remainder of their lives.

Karen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Gordon Payne; her cherished grandchildren, Melissa Jones and Jodi Jones; her parents; and six siblings.

She is survived by her children: Diane (Andrew) Motter, Tammy (Matthew) Jones, and Steven (Lisa) Payne. She was a devoted grandmother to Sonia (Bradley) Berkefelt, Gilbert Havens, Rachel Jones, Timothy (Abigail) Motter, Jack Motter, Paul (Grace) Motter, and Robert Payne, and a proud great-grandmother to Shiloh Jones, Meadow Sessions, Aria Motter, Iris Motter, and Andrew Motter. She is also survived by her sister, Betty Atkins, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

Karen's life was defined by her service to others and her faithful witness to the salvation that comes only through Jesus Christ. She was deeply loved as a mother, grandmother, and devoted caregiver.  Karen was a dedicated volunteer with numerous organizations, including the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), Ironwood Christian Camps, and multiple mission organizations. Her heart for service was evident through her active involvement over the years at First Baptist Church of Santa Maria, Valley Christian Academy, and more recently at Lompoc Valley Baptist Church and Lompoc Christian School. She was dearly loved by her Bible study ladies and those she faithfully discipled in the Lord. Her strength, kindness, and steadfast faith touched many lives.

Karen had a special love for crocheting and lovingly created countless blankets for babies, weddings, and other meaningful occasions - each one a tangible expression of her care for others. She also enjoyed scrapbooking, preserving memories for her family and friends.

Karen loved those around her and gave selflessly. She lived out her faith daily, trusting God through both life's joys and hardships. Her family and friends find comfort in knowing she is now at peace, reunited with loved ones, and resting in the presence of her Lord and Savior.

A graveside service will be held at Lompoc Cemetery on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at Lompoc Valley Baptist Church at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dick Payne Scholarship Fund at Lompoc Christian School. Contributions can be made online at www.lompocvalleybaptist.net/donate