Joye Ellen Payton

Joye E. Payton, lovingly known as “Boppie” and “Wawa Joye,” age 98½, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2026. 

Born on November 3, 1927, in Akron, Ohio, Joye was the daughter of Joseph and Mary Mangold. She graduated from North High School and went on to enjoy a successful career with Ohio Edison, where she worked until her retirement. Joye was also a proud founding member of the Ohio Edison Women’s League. 

Joye was known for her vibrant spirit and her jam-packed social calendar. She rarely sat still, filling her days with square dancing, round dancing, breakfast gatherings with friends, and countless activities that brought joy to her life. Her warmth, laughter, and love of friendship touched many lives throughout the years. To her family, she was affectionately known as Boppie and Wawa Joye, names that reflected the special place she held in their hearts. 

Joye was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Chandler “Ward” Payton; her parents, Joseph and Mary Mangold; and her sisters, Norma Bodine and Marjorie Crabtree. She is survived by her loving daughter, Cindy (Gary) Snicer; her sons, Gary Payton and William Payton; as well as many cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren who will forever treasure her memory. 

Graveside services will be held at Mount Peace Cemetery at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 18, 2026. A celebration of Joye’s life will be held at a later date. Joye’s family takes comfort in knowing that her legacy of love, friendship, and devotion to family will continue through the generations she helped shape.

To share a memory, send a condolence, light a candle, or send flowers, visit the Tribute Wall at www.billowfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/ (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)