Barbara Payton Mends

Barbara Payton Mends, known affectionately to many as Barbara, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2026, at Centennial Medical Center after an extended illness. Born on March 1, 1961, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Barbara’s vibrant life touched all who knew her.

From a young age, Barbara embraced her faith and accepted Christ as her personal Savior. She was a devoted member of Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, where her commitment to her beliefs was evident and steadfast.

Barbara dedicated her professional life to caring for others, working as a caregiver within the healthcare system. Her compassion for those in need resonated deeply in her work, making a genuine difference in the lives of many patients and families.

Family was the heart of Barbara’s world. She is survived by her loving children, Chekita Mends and Joe Paye, whose lives were enriched by her guidance and unwavering support. Barbara’s pride and joy were her grandchildren: Keandre Mends, Kemontez Mends, Kemira Mends, Javonne Paye, and Nhyisar Paye. She cherished each of them, celebrating their accomplishments and milestones with immense pride.

Barbara’s warmth extended beyond her immediate family. Those left to cherish her memory include her sister Marilyn Hill, her brother Larry Payton, nieces Veronica Bryant, April Payton-Maxwell, Nicole Bryant, Wanda Hill, Latrice Hill, April Payton-Maxwell, and Tameka Payton, and nephews Lloyd Bryant, Tyrone Williams, and Roderick Massey. Each relationship was important to Barbara, and she delighted in being part of her extended family’s lives.

She is reunited in eternal rest with her father Junior Lee Payton, mother Martha Taylor Payton, brothers JD Hill and George “Pace Man” Payton, her beloved son George Mends, sisters Mary Hill, Valerie “Shank” Payton, Alfreda Payton, and niece Tawanda Payton.

Barbara will be remembered for many things—the humor and fun-loving spirit she brought into every room, her unmistakable laugh, and her caring heart. She found great joy in the simple pleasures of life—watching soap operas and game shows, enjoying Tyler Perry movies, savoring sweets, and partaking in delicious home-cooked meals lovingly prepared by her daughter.

Above all, Barbara's greatest pride was her family. She championed her children and grandchildren at every opportunity, celebrating their achievements and embracing them with unconditional love.

Though her earthly journey has ended, Barbara Payton Mends leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and devotion to family. Her memory will remain ever-present in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.