Obituary of Mary Kristine Payson

Mary Kristine Payson, a cherished matriarch whose love and dedication brought light to everyone and gathering, peacefully departed this world on April 10, 2024, leaving behind a tapestry of treasured memories and a legacy of warmth and tradition.

Born on January 17, 1942, Mary’s journey through life was marked by her unwavering commitment to family, community, and the cherished traditions that bound them together.

Mary and David started their family of six with the arrival of Debra (Jeremy), Constance (Richard), Brenda (Gary) and Charles (Sheena), all within nine years. She was not just a mother and wife but a pillar of strength and love, creating a home where she thrived. As the children grew, Mary decided to work for the Duluth Public Schools as a cafeteria cook. Her favorite memories were of all the kids, a testament to her nurturing nature.

Rooted in her Lutheran upbringing and embracing her husband and children’s Catholic faith, Mary’s spirituality was a guiding force in her life. She found solace and strength in her faith, and her unwavering devotion inspired all who knew her.

Her volunteering ventures were the Red Cross, Jobs Daughters, and Girl Scouts. Mary was not only a dedicated volunteer but also a committed community member. As the neighborhood reporter, she chronicled the stories and events that brought her neighbors together. She kept the neighborhood up to speed on the news! Because if you didn’t know Mary, you just didn’t know! One event that set the neighborhood aflutter was the JP and School bus breakfast.

She loved the Lake Superior Ore Boats because her beloved father worked on the ships. She collected Boyd Bears and Tupperware lids with no containers. Mary’s specialty was the holidays. Her famous sandwich loaf and green marshmallow Jello salad were on the table every year. Mary poured her love and devotion into every bite, creating cherished memories. Brenda has taken the baton of this tradition, ensuring that it will be savored for generations to come.

Mary is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 44 years, David, her daughter Constance, her parents, Fred and Mary Ehlert, and her sister Patricia. Surviving are her daughters Debra (Jeremy) and Brenda (Gary), as well as her son Charles (Sheena), and grandchildren Kristina, Peter, Natalie, Valerie, Hillarie, and Anthony. Her Great-grandchildren are Marion, Brandon, Roman, Charlie, Madden, Audrey, Elaina, and Clayton, as well as several nieces and nephews whose lives were forever enriched by her presence. Though she may be gone from this earth, her spirit will live in cherished memories. A very special thank you to the Heritage Haven staff.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held on April 20, 2024, at the Cremation Society of Minnesota, 4100 Grand Ave, Duluth, MN. The wake will start at 2:00 p.m., followed by the celebration at 3:00 p.m. May she rest in peace, knowing that she was loved beyond measure.