Linda Sleight Payne, 77, of Blackfoot, Idaho, passed away peacefully in her sweetheart's arms on September 6, 2024, after fighting to recover from a long illness.

Born on July 18, 1947, in Montpelier, Idaho, to the late Grant and Nelda (Shepherd) Sleight, Linda was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.
Linda married her high school sweetheart, Steven Payne, on June 24, 1966, in the Logan temple, and together they were blessed with three amazing sons. She was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in various roles, especially with the young women's program. One of her favorite nicknames was given to her at girl's camp – Major Sleight Payne.

Linda loved her boys immensely. One of their favorite memories of their mom was her helping them each get their Eagle Scout award. She was ingenious in making and decorating each of them a large Eagle-shaped cake for their award ceremonies. She loved walking to and from Stoddard Elementary School where she worked as a cook for many years. She was an avid reader, finding solace in her scriptures and other religious writings. During her health challenges of the last few years, Linda cherished attending church meetings and listening to the Tabernacle Choir from the comfort of her home.
Camping was another of Linda's favorite pastimes. She loved spending time outdoors with her family. Her children and grandchildren held a special place in her heart. Linda looked forward to joining her family at the Eastern Idaho State Fair each year. She was able to enjoy one last trip to the fair with her boys before her passing.

She is survived by her husband Steven, sons Troy (Heidi), Randy, Shaun (Teressa), many grandchildren and great grandchildren, brother, McKay (Karen Kay) Sleight, and sisters, Karen Cline and Debbie Beckstead.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 13, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the Blackfoot 6th Ward building, 660 Teton Road, Blackfoot, Idaho. A viewing will be held on Thursday evening from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Hawker Funeral Home, 132 South Shilling Avenue, Blackfoot, Idaho, and Friday morning at 10:00 a.m. at the church prior to services. Interment will follow at the Montpelier Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank all those who helped care for 'Linky' over the past couple of years as she fought valiantly to stay with her family as long as possible.