Elizabeth “Beth” Millete Payne

Elizabeth “Beth” Millete Payne, 57, of Newport, North Carolina, passed away at her home on Thursday, August 28, 2025.

Born on December 6, 1967, in Sea Level, NC, Beth was the beloved daughter of James Carlise “JC” Ellis and Gloria Gray Ellis.

Throughout her life, Beth’s life was defined by her faith in God and her sincere desire to help others. She was a bright encouragement to those around her, always optimistic and providing hope. She showed her commitment to helping others through her actions, particularly during her employment at Dollar General, where she often purchased groceries for those in need. Her passion for supporting children was evident as she sponsored her daughters' and granddaughters' classes during the Scholastic Book Fair, ensuring that every child had the opportunity to experience the joy of reading.

Beth was a loving wife, wonderful mother and proud grandmother who will be remembered for her loving and caring nature, and who will be missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Those remaining to cherish her memory are her husband, William “Bill” Payne; daughters, Joetta Payne (Raymond Anderson) of Newport and Joanna Ford (Brandon) of Copperas Cove, TX; sons, Josh Ellis and Jonathan Payne (Emelia), all of Newport; mother, Gloria Gray Ellis of Newport; sisters, Jeanie E. Buchanan (Charles) and Carla M. Ellis, all of Newport; and grandchildren, Desean Anderson, Jevon Anderson, JJ Payne, Abbilynn Payne, Tiana Anderson and Dominic Ford-Payne.

Beth was preceded in death by her father, James Carlise “JC” Ellis.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to Hope Mission of Coastal Carolina, 1209 Arendell Street, Morehead City, NC 28557.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.