Theresa Yvonne Payne

In Loving Memory of Theresa “TC” Payne

Theresa Payne, affectionately known as TC, was born on December 16, 1952, to Josephine and Leroy Payne. She peacefully departed this life on March 23, 2026. A lifelong resident of Landover & Capitol Heights, Maryland, TC made her home at Washington Heights and Central Garden Apartments—places that became a refuge, a gathering spot, and a second home for countless relatives, friends, and neighborhood children.

TC was one of seven daughters and is lovingly remembered by her sisters: Victoria Rinehardt, Loretta Woodard, Cassandra Payne, Joanne Payne, Diane Payne, and Agnes Brooks and her brothers: Leroy, Anthony, and James Payne. She was a devoted mother to her two children, Alonzo and Alonna Marable, and a proud grandmother to Cyera Odom, Alonzo Marable Jr., Alonte Sanders, Alando Sanders, Latrell Sanders, Jalen Sanders, and British Wylie. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Vincent Noah Marable, Milani Brown, and Sincere Sanders.

A woman of many talents and endless energy, TC worked for the Board of Education, Goodwill Industries, delivered newspapers and was even known as the neighborhood “candy lady,” a role that made her beloved by all neighborhood kids. She babysat countless children over the years, treating each one as if they were her own and becoming Mom and grandmom to many.

TC had a vibrant spirit and a love for life that was impossible to miss. She adored music and could light up any room with her dancing. She was mechanically inclined—never afraid to get her hands dirty fixing bikes or even working on cars. She played volleyball, the trumpet, and the drums, and cooked with a skill and soul that brought people together.

A true sports fan, TC cheered passionately for the Washington Redskins (now the Commanders), the Michael Jordan–era Chicago Bulls, the Tim Duncan San Antonio Spurs, and the Golden State Warriors. Whether it was football or basketball, she watched with the same intensity and excitement she brought to everything she did.

Above all, TC was a giver. Her home was always open. Nearly every family member lived with her at some point, and she welcomed each person with warmth, understanding, and a fierce sense of loyalty. She knew everyone, and everyone knew her. She was tough when she needed to be—especially when it came to education and making sure the kids around her stayed focused and learned something—but her toughness came from love.

TC lived a life of service, joy, resilience, and generosity. She touched lives simply by being herself—strong, funny, loving, and unforgettable.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and community that will continue to shine through the many people she helped raise, support, and inspire. TC will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in every story shared, every meal remembered, and every life she touched.

May she rest in eternal peace.

Her family will receive friends from 10:00am until Mass 11:00am on Friday, April 10, 2026, at St. Luke Roman Catholic Church, 4925 East Capitol Street, S.E., Washington, D.C. 20019.