It is with great sorrow we announce the sudden passing of Heather Payne. With Bob holding her hand Heather slipped away on September 22, 2026 at Foothills Hospital due to complications following brain surgery.

Heather was born on July2, 1957 in Kimberley to Fred and Phyllis Blackwell. She grew up in Chapman Camp, a great place to be, and formed lifelong friendships that still stand today.

She somehow made it through the Kimberley education system, then attending Lethbridge University, graduating with a degree in Wildlife Resource Management. She went on to work at the Kimberley Hospital until it’s closing, then on to the Cranbrook Hospital where She once again established great friendships with all her co-workers.

Heather and Bob were married in 2002 and from then on, were” two peas in a pod”, traveling and golfing year-round, with 6 months in Kimberley, and 6 months in their home in Arizona. They did everything together.

Heather was very competitive in everything she did, excelling at bowling and golf. She was an excellent cook (her great nieces and nephews always look forward to her unique and scary Halloween treats), great housekeeper, and was super organized, everything in its place and a place for everything or watch out the world is coming to an end.

She was always smiling and laughing and always had a funny story to brighten your day.

Heather is survived by husband Bob, Stepsons Bill (Karen) Payne, Dave (Leann) Payne, Curtis (Ashley) Payne, 6 granddaughters, 1 great granddaughter, 1 great grandson, Brother David (Barb) Blackwell, and many nieces’ nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

She was predeceased by stepson Cory Payne, maternal grandmother Nanny Coates,

parents Fred and Phyllis Blackwell. And brother John Blackwell.

The “Boob Crew” is down another member.

At the request of Heather there will be no formal funeral service but a “Celebration of Life”

will be held at a later date.

So, hoist a beer,

Bowl a frame or two,

Play a round of golf,

Pet a dog,

But most important of all, Hug a loved one, you will never know when it might be the last time.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the S.P.C.A. or the charity of your choice.

mcphersonfh.com