---

  Margaret L. Payne, 90, of Longville MN, stepped into Heaven March 11, 2023. She was born in Ottawa Kansas to Orville and Virginia McNish on May 31, 1932.

   Margaret the most loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother is survived by her husband of 69 years, Bill; sons- Jon (Jan), Doug (Merilee), Jim (Dawn), Bob (Camilla); grandchildren, Joel, Meredith, Nick, Matt, Ben, Isaac, Alissa, Luke, Leah, Grace, Ted, Beth, Daniel and 8 great grandchildren. 

 Preceded In death by her parents, Orville and Virginia McNish and two younger siblings, Bill McNish and Susan Whitney.

   Upon graduation from Ottawa High School, Margaret attended Topeka Business College and worked as office staff for an accountant in Ottawa, KS.  Margaret and Bill were married August 14, 1953. After serving as missionaries in interior Brazil, she and Bill returned to complete Bill’s pastoral degree at Calvary Bible College in St. Louis, MO. In 1960, she and Bill accepted the call to serve at Longville Bible Chapel for the next 38 years. Margaret was an integral part of ministry and specialized in hospitality. In addition to leading Bible studies and teaching children’s Sunday school, she was involved in many behind the scenes activities. Serving others seemed to come naturally for her. Margaret enjoyed baking, sewing, gardening and even joined her boys in outdoor fun like shooting, camping, and canoeing. Fresh baked bread was one of her specialties. She put her faith in Jesus as her Savior into action and was always ready to listen and encourage. Long before email and texting she used the power of her words in notes or letters to communicate love to others.

   A celebration of life memorial service was held at the Longville Bible Chapel March 18th, 2023. Pastor Bob Leko officiated.

   In lieu of flowers memorials can be sent to Longville Bible Chapel.

   Margaret’s care has been entrusted to Northern Peace Funeral Home of Walker, MN. Online condolences for the family may be left at www.northernpeace.com

---