The Life of Deborah “Debbie” Payton. Deborah “Debbie” Lynn Payton peacefully passed away on May 1, 2026. (CLICK HERE TO VIEW RECORDING OF FUNERAL SERVICE.

Born on January 18, 1957, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Deborah was the beloved daughter of Ruth Miller- Johnson and Willie Johnson. She was a proud graduate of Withrow High School, Class of 1976, and later attended the University of Cincinnati, where she studied Administration.

Deborah dedicated her entire professional life to the City of Cincinnati, a city she deeply loved and never left. She began her career in Recreation and went on to serve in Administration, retiring after 30 years of faithful service. Throughout her career, she was known for her professionalism, reliability, and quiet strength.

She was a loving and devoted mother to her children, Nakia Bedgood (Ian Sr.) and Carl Payton Jr., and a proud Nana to Kenyah Bedgood, Ian Bedgood Jr., Carter Payton and her great grandson, Ian Bedgood III. Deborah especially cherished her role as “Nana,” a title she wore with great joy and pride. Being a Nana brought her immense happiness, and she found her greatest fulfillment in loving, nurturing, and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandson.

Deborah leaves behind her cherished siblings, her brother Charles Miller and sister Melinda Johnson, along with many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Deborah was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Payton Sr.; her parents, Ruth Miller-Johnson and Willie Johnson; her grandmother, Emma Smith; her siblings, Regina Jones, Joyce Jacobs, Emma “Squeaky” Johnson, Brenda Johnson, David Johnson; and her beloved niece Tawana Jones and nephew Burldon “Man” Jones.

Those who knew Deborah will remember her above all for her sweet spirit. Again and again, people described her as “the sweetest lady” Her gentle heart, kind nature, and quiet grace touched everyone she encountered, leaving a legacy of love that will forever remain in the lives she warmed.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from 10:00 am until 11:00 am, on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel, 2625 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati (45206). The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation, beginning at 11:00 am. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy she leaves behind.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Payton family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the Payton family during this difficult time. Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information. PLEASE CLICK HERE TO VIEW RECORDING OF FUNERAL SERVICE.