Obituary of Shannon Leray Payton

Shannon LeRay Payton, joyfully known as Shay, was a devoted mother, daugther, sister, granddaughter, niece, and cherished friend. Her sudden departure on July 10, 2024, at the age of 33, has left a profound void in the lives of those who knew and loved her. Born on May 12, 1991, to Ronald and Olivia Payton in Livingston, New Jersey, Shannon was the second of two children. On the day of her birth, she came into the world with both fists balled tight. From that day forward, Shannon displayed the attitude of a championship fighter and attacked every obstacle with conviction. In 2009, Shannon graduated high school from St. Vincent Academy, Newark, NJ., and continued on to earn and receive her Bachelor's Degree in International Business from Howard University, Washington, D.C. in 2013, and receive her Masters Degree International Business from Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas in 2015. She worked for JCPenney as an Assistant Buyer in Apparel in Plano, TX, then relocated to Philadelphia, PA and worked for Kicks USA (presently known as Snipes USA) in their footwear division as Senior Buyer for Women's & Kids Footwear. Shannon was successful in her role as buyer due to her love for fashion and deep understanding of current trends. She loved chatting with her sister Serena every day as well as her family and friends. Shannon loved to travel all over the world. She spent time in Europe, The Caribbean, Cuba and many other wonderful locations. She also enjoyed traveling to different states to attend music festivals with her friends. Shannon's highest achievement was the birth of her two beautiful children - Peyton and Noah with Christopher Thompson. She adored and loved her kids. Shannon instilled her passion for exploration and travel in her children. She would take them to amusement parks, libraries, children museums and new restaurants. When she wasn't spending time with her kids or out of town, Shannon spent her free time building Legos. She loved building projects such as flowers and towns. What started out as a hobby to relax, quickly became a talent! Shannon had the amazing ability to balance her honesty with kindness and was known for making her loved ones laugh. She leaves to mourn her passing: Parents Ronald & Olivia Payton, sister Serena Payton, her beloved children Peyton Christine and Noah Christopher Thompson, Co-parent Christopher Thompson. Grandmother Adell Close, Aunt Arra Close; Uncles Michael Payton, Gary Close, Spencer Close and James Close Jr., along with a host of other family members and very close dear friends. Special acknowledgement (Peyton & Noah grandparents) - Tyrone & Alisha Thomas, Mercedes Thompson, Mercedes Schwan (great-grandmother). Rest in Peace Shannon, pieces of our hearts are traveling with you, and you will always and forever be missed.