Carol Jean Payne

Carol Jean Payne, age 78, of Bryan, Ohio, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Hillside Country Living in Bryan. Born on October 25, 1947, in Columbus, Ohio, she was the daughter of Lloyd Rodney and Loretta Jean (Buckley) Wheeler. A graduate of South High School in Columbus, Carol earned her bachelor’s degree from West Liberty College and her master’s degree from Defiance College. She taught at Four County Joint Vocational School in Archbold for 26 years, where she enriched the lives of countless students by bringing history to life through its stories.

Carol married James R. Payne on June 20, 1980, and he survives her. She was the brightest presence in Jim’s life and an irreplaceable part of her entire family. She watched over her brothers, cared tenderly for her parents, spoiled her nieces and nephews, and remained a lifelong friend to her girl cousins. Those who knew her cherished her warm presence, generous spirit, and lively sense of fun.

She held a lifelong passion for Bassett hounds, took great joy in decorating and improving her and Jim’s home, and loved visiting the graves of United States Presidents. In addition to her husband, Carol is survived by her brothers, Robert Wheeler, Paul (Susan) Wheeler, and Harley (Cindy) Wheeler, along with many beloved nieces and nephews: Robert Wheeler, Jenny Garner, Joe (Mary) Wheeler, Danny Wheeler, Quincy (Chelsea) Wheeler, Noelle Wheeler, Nadia Wheeler, Machia (Elizabeth) Wheeler, Elizabeth Wheeler, Sonora (Peter) Detrow, and Eden Wheeler. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Charles Wheeler.