Melinda Crawford, 68, of Cincinnati, Ohio departed from eternal life on Tuesday, May 30, 2023 at Mt. Airy Gardens and Rehabilitation after a long illness. She was born to James H. Payne and Bertha Payne.

She attended Cincinnati Public Schools. Melinda married William Crawford and, in the union, came Brenda Payne and Carmela L. Crawford. Melinda was a longtime resident of Winton Hills Community where she was well-known, loved and appreciated. She worked as an aide; volunteered as a clerk at Findlater & Winton Terrace (CMHA) Rental Office, and St. Vincent de Paul. Melinda received certifications in computer programming, CPR and first aid. She loved going to church, as she became a member of the “House of Hope”. Melinda loved to upkeep her yard and plant her gardens. She was a thoughtful person that helped others in need and was very caring.

Melinda leaves to cherish her memory: daughter, Nashauna Payne; grandchildren: Tyree Crawford, Tayshia Payne, Jaylen Crawford, Keezia Williamson, and Ceonte Echols; great-grandchildren: T’Aire, T’Aireon, Landyon, Zaylen, and Inari; brothers: Charles Payne, Sr. (Betty), James Payne, Jr., Donald Payne, Leroy Payne, Henry Payne, Herbert Payne (Joann), and Robert Payne (Pat); sisters, Bessie Payne, and Rowena Marshall (Tyrone); and a host of nieces, nephews, and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James Payne, Sr. and Bertha Payne; brothers, William Martin, and Ronald Payne, Sr.; sisters, Hattie Wiley, Alice Payne, and Brenda Bowen; and daughters, Brenda Payne and Carmela Crawford aka Latia Davis.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Funeral service at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 24, 2023 at Second Baptist Church of West College Hill, 6225 Betts Ave, Cincinnati, Ohio 45224. 

Arrangements entrusted to the care of KINLEY Funeral Home.