Barbara Ann Payne Ellis

Barbara Ann Payne-Ellis, affectionately known as "Tootsie" was born on Thursday, October 6, 1952, in Cleveland, Ohio to doting parents, Charlie & Elizabeth Payne. As the fifth born of eight children, Barbara carved out her own lane in the family often as a tenacious and vibrantly spirited youth. 

Constantly active and engaging in outdoor activities, Barbara would easily be drawn to climbing trees, hopping fences, and recreational sports as a teen. Athletics would come fairly easy to Barbara as she excelled in both basketball and volleyball. Barbara briefly attended Collinwood High School where she and her siblings would be known to fight their way home from school due to mobs of racist classmates attempting to harm them. She would soon after transfer schools only to find her home at Thee Shaw High where she would proudly graduate as a Cardinal in 1970. Soon after, Barbara would embark on a career path that would become the cornerstone for her entire family! In 1973, Barbara walked into the United States Postal Service as a Clerk and left with an impeccable legacy! 

Barbara wouldn't remain a clerk for long, as she would transition into leadership positions such as the Supervisor of Mail Processing. General Supervisor, Senior Operations Support Specialist, Acting Manager of the NIN Plant Support, and ultimately one of the head honchos in the place! When you mentioned Barbara's name, a level of excellence and authority was implied. There was great pride and integrity that Barbara exuded in every position she held. Despite her high level of responsibility, she found time to also participate socially at the Post Office as Chair of the Recreational Committee, Diversity Committee Team Member, Safety and Good Housekeeping Team Member, she participated in the Postal Choir, the Army/Navy Basketball Team where she represented the Army. and was a proud member of the First Class Speakers chapter of Toastmasters 

During her tenure with the Postal Service, Barbara didn't just work to better herself, but she selflessly assisted in countless members of her friends and family to receive employment also. She paved the way for many of us to this very day as the Postal Service will forever be known as the Family business. On May 11, 2011 she married her long-time love, Paul Ellis! Now with a new role as wife and a successful career in the books. Barbara would retire in 2014 having her hand to the plow for an impeccable 41 years. 

Upon retirement, Barbara continued her passions diving into ministry and her family full-time. As a faithful member of First Bethel M.B.C. Barbara utilized her leadership abilities and strong administrative skills for the good of her church home. Barbara would serve as a church administrator. trustee of the church, an usher, a member of the missions ministry, the women's committee, and choir director who often wrote songs for the children to minister. Barbara was such a creative force. She used that gift to crochet, and write poetry. create marketing materials for businesses, and so much more! 

Barbara was an avid bowler, traveler, and devoted Eastern Star of the chapter WISDOM 51! In her spare time, she would often travel to the Amish Country and sojourn the country with her husband on amazing adventures. With her roots established long ago in the foundations of Christ. Barbara often prayed without ceasing for all those she knew. Her legacy of love and provision for us will be cherished. Barbara is survived by her husband Paul her Daughter Lucretia (David) Aldridge, her Son Paul Payne, her loving Grandchildren, David, Davida. Mikah. Daveed & Perm Brothers Lamy Stewart, Patricia Mellott, Phyllis Carlock, Joan Bayne Charlotte Holder, and a host of nieces, nephews great grand, and friends who loved her death.

A  public viewing will be held on July 7, 2023, from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM at the House Of Peace Funeral Home, 4105 East 71st Street, Cleveland, OH. The Celebration of Life Services will be held on July 8, 2023, 10:30 AM Wake and 11:00AM Service at the First Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, 6518 Quincy Ave, Cleveland, OH.

Face Mask Will Be Required For Services.

We welcome you to provide your thoughts and memories on Barbara's Tribute Wall