Candy Jo Payne, age 60, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Sunday night, October 13, 2024, at her home.

      Candy was born January 24, 1964, in Dixon, the daughter of John and Florene (Tackitt) Payne. 

      She had worked as a server at both the Flora Eagles and Flora American Legion.  In her free time, Candy found happiness in the outdoors, enjoying fishing, mushroom hunting, and camping.  She also loved solving cryptograms and word search puzzles, always keeping her mind sharp.  Each year, Candy took pride in planting a garden and was known for canning her homemade salsa and relish, which she loved sharing with family and friends.  Her kindness and thoughtful nature will be remembered by all who were fortunate to call her a friend. 

      She is survived by her daughters: Miranda Ashley of Flora and Lois (Colter) Liston of Fairfield; grandchildren: Zane Worthey, Olivia Joiner, Robert Richardson, Mikell Richardson, Taylor Ashley, Dakota Webb, Promise Webb, Eli Ashley, Winter Sebring, and Daniel Sebring; great-grandchildren: Cameron Webb and Isabelle Parish; brothers: Les (Jackie) Payne of Sterling and Randy Payne of Flora; and her beloved cats: Buster and Lila.

      She was preceded in death by her parents; brother: John “Butch” Payne; and son-in-law: Nick Ashley.

      A memorial visitation will be held from 4 until 6 p.m. on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Memorial donations are suggested to Clay County Cancer Support Group, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com