Geraldine Estelle (Gerrie) Payne

A Life of Love and Melody

Gerrie Payne, a cherished mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully in her home at NorBella Memory Care in Prior Lake, Minnesota, on August 1, 2026. Born on August 26, 1933, in Moorhead, Minnesota, Gerrie was the beloved daughter of Ole and Edith Muhle. She grew up in Longville,MN and loved playing in the lake with her brothers.

In her early years, Gerrie’s life was suffused with the warmth and vibrancy of music. A gifted pianist and organist, she filled her church and home with melodies that reflected her joyful spirit. Her love for music was a constant throughout her life, a passion that she shared generously with those around her.

Gerrie graduated from Glyndon High School in 1951 and soon after began her career with AT&T, where she dedicated over 30 years as a telephone operator. Her work was not just a job; it was a testament to her commitment and strong work ethic which she faithfully instilled in her children. Her colleagues admired her for her professionalism and her ability to brighten any room with her warm smile and keen sense of humor.

On February 1, 1952, Gerrie married Sherman Payne in Glyndon Lutheran Church. Together, they built a life rich with love and laughter.

Gerrie was the proud mother of four children: Vicki (Ron Bickle), Cindy (Doug Myers), Steve (Amanda Meneses Ballesteros)), and Mark (Sue Diede). Her nurturing spirit and unwavering support were constants in their lives. Gerrie also took immense pride in her six grandchildren: Kris (Ron Siven), Ben Bickle, Katie and Jessica Myers, Melissa (Jared Touchstone), and Christopher Payne (Paige Campbell), as well as her four great-grandchildren: Jeremy and Aaron Siven, and Preston and Jennings Touchstone. Her family was her greatest joy, and she cherished the time spent with each of them.

Preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Sherman, her brothers Bob & Duane, and her sister-in-law (Darlene Hoglin). Gerrie leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter. Her family finds comfort in the many memories they shared with her, each filled with her characteristic humor and warmth.

A Visitation will be held on August 31st, at 9am, at Maranatha Free Lutheran Church in Glyndon, MN, followed by a Celebration of Life at 10am.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at NorBella Memory Care in Prior Lake, Minnesota, for the loving care they provided to Mom.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Music Department at Maranatha Free Lutheran Church, 101 Foundation Ave., Glyndon, MN 56547.

As Gerrie’s melodies linger in our hearts, we celebrate a life well-lived and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.