Ruth Sharon Payton

Ruth S. Payton, 83, of Big Springs, NE died on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at the Ogallala Community Hospital.

She was born January 20, 1940, in Lewellen, NE to Clinton Thomas and Ruth Hope (West) Reeves. Ruth attended school in Lewellen, NE where she graduated in 1957, as Salutatorian of her class.

Ruth married Paul “LeRoy” Payton on January 19, 1957, in Julesburg, CO. Ruth and LeRoy made their home in Lewellen, NE. They also lived in Missouri and Arkansas. LeRoy passed away due to an accident in Danville, AR in 1983. After that, she lived in Lamar, AR, and then settled in Big Springs, NE.

Ruth is survived by two sons, Paul (Cheryl) Payton of Big Springs, NE, and Perry (Yvonne) Payton of London, AR; two Daughters, Sandra Richards of Tyler, TX, and Brenda Esquada of Fort Smith, AR. Sisters, Sally (Steve) Peet of Omaha, Ne; Sue (John) Wilson of Beaver Dam, KY; Brother, Steve (Barb) Reeves of Falls of Rough, KY; Sister-in-law, Grace Eva Reeves of Shelton, NE. 10 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, LeRoy, and six brothers, Clinton, Thomas, Theron, Gary, Jim, and Mike. Sisters, Jackie Alexander, and Linda Blake, Infant sister Lana Kay, and a grandson, Michael Bowers.

Cremation has been chosen. A family burial will take place at a later date at the Appleton Cemetery in Appleton, AR.

Draucker Funeral Home of Ogallala, NE has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent by going to www.drauckerfh.com.

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