Natalie Cecil Payne

Natalie Cecil Payne, 40, of Owensboro, went to be with the Lord on December 23, 2025, at home and under the compassionate care of Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Kentucky.

Natalie was born in Owensboro on January 29, 1985, to William “Craig” and Karen O’Bryan Cecil. She was the middle child, uniquely herself, and lovingly different from her sisters, Mandy and Emily. A homebody throughout high school, Natalie surprised everyone when she chose to follow her dreams beyond Owensboro. After earning her associate degree from Owensboro Community College, she moved to Nashville to attend Belmont University. There, she earned her bachelor’s degree, worked in the Alumni Department, and completed her master’s degree.

During her time in Nashville, Natalie loved hosting her niece Maddi and nephew Trent during school breaks, creating special memories they will always cherish. Family remained at the center of her heart, and she eventually returned home to be closer to those she loved most.

Natalie was a driven and goal-oriented young woman. She began her career with the City of Owensboro as an Events Coordinator and later joined Century Aluminum, where she found both purpose and community. She proudly served as Human Resources Manager, a role she truly loved, along with the people she worked beside.

In 2018, Natalie married the love of her life, Heath Payne. Their son Cecil was born in 2019, followed by daughter Mabel in 2021, and Natalie was also a devoted and loving mother to Levi, whom she cherished as her own. Her children were her greatest joy, and she loved them with her whole heart. She often said, “Mom, I know I spoiled them, but I didn’t plan on anyone else having to take care of them.” She was, without question, the very best mom.

Natalie will be remembered for her faith, her determination, her love for family, and the boundless devotion she gave to her children. Her legacy of love will live on in all who knew her.

Natalie was preceded in death by her grandparents, Hugh Cecil and Jim and Patsy O’Bryan.

Those left to cherish her memory include her loving husband, Heath Payne; children, Cecil, Mabel, and Levi Payne; parents, Craig and Karen Cecil; sisters, Emily Cecil and Mandy Boswell (Todd); niece and nephew, Maddi and Trent; grandmother, Betty Cecil; parents-in-law, Ronnie and Kim Payne; brother-in-law, Chase Payne; and a large and loving extended family.

The funeral service for Natalie Payne will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will follow in St. Peter Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Kentucky, 3419 Wathen's Crossing, Owensboro, KY 42301.

Memories and condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.glenncares.com