Edna Cleo Payne

Edna Cleo Payne, 85, of Sedalia, MO, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at her home. She was born on July 25, 1940, in rural Pettis County, MO, the daughter of Charley W. Shull and Mary (Mosby) Shull, who preceded her in death.

On November 22, 1981, in Sedalia, she was united in marriage to Wallace Gene Payne, who preceded her in death on February 14, 2020.

Cleo had a lifelong love of country and western music and fulfilled her dream of singing in a band. Alongside her companion, John, she traveled throughout central Missouri sharing her gift of song and even had the opportunity to perform at the Missouri State Fair. Before that, she was a devoted wife to Gene, and together they enjoyed square dancing, waltzing, and spending time with friends. Cleo was also actively involved in the ministry of Grace Baptist Church in Sedalia, where her faith and music were a source of joy and strength.

She is survived by three daughters, DeAnna Pedersen (Chris) of Panama City, FL, Mary Gwin (Jurgen) of Niceville, FL, and Linda Magnuson (Ty) of Sedalia; six grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; her twin brother, Edward Leo Shull (Phyllis) of Wellton, AZ; and her beloved companion of several years, John Cecilia of Sedalia.

In addition to her husband and parents, Cleo was preceded in death by a daughter, Janice Carter; a son, Lester Canida, II; and six siblings, Dorothy Closser, Nellie Mae Brownfield, Ruby Shull, Charles "Bud" Shull, Anna Smith, and Ervin Shull.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Thursday, September 25, 2025, at Grace Baptist Church with Pastor Dan Hankins officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

A private burial will be held by the family at a later date in Crown Hill Cemetery, Sedalia, MO.

Pallbearers will be Chris Pedersen, Brad Blankenship, Landon Blankenship, and James Hurtt.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital in care of Rea Funeral Chapel.