Yvonne F. Payton

On Sunday, June 30, 2024, Yvonne F. Payton, entered her eternal home and is now in the presence of her Lord and Savior. Her Celebration of Life will be held at The Salvation Army, Ithaca Corps, on Sunday, July 21 at 3 pm, with visitation at 2 pm, and a fellowship meal after the service.

Born on May 26, 1937 in Johnson City, NY to Walter and Wilhelmina Guldenschuh. Yvonne mostly grew up in the Binghamton area with her family, graduating from high school valedictorian of her class. She went to teacher’s college for two years before entering the Salvation Army Officer Training College in 1957.

After completing her training, she became a Salvation Army officer and married Capt. Frank Payton in June of 1958. Two months later, they boarded a ship and sailed for South America. There they learned Spanish and fell in love with the Latino/Hispanic culture. After their marriage, Frank and Yvonne served a total of 9 years in Argentina, 9 years in Puerto Rico, 7 years in New York and New Jersey, 11 years in Mexico and 4 years in Jamaica. Frank and Yvonne retired in 1998, it was at that time that they settled permanently in Ithaca to enjoy quiet country life for retirement.

In retirement, Yvonne continued serving in various ways as a faithful soldier of the Ithaca Corps. With Frank, she researched and wrote their own biography and a history book on the Salvation Army Hispanic ministry within the USA. They mentored the Hispanic ministries and officers, as well as several college students over the years. Yvonne enjoyed creative outlets such as knitting and cross-stich. She also collected unique nativities, filling her home with over 100 sets from around the world.

Colonel Yvonne courageously battled cancer over the last five years. She fought every setback and chose to stay with her family and friends as long as she could. She now rejoices at her reunion with husband Frank, son Mark, her parents and many family and friends. She is survived by her children, Linda Payton, Debi Payton Oldendorf, Karen (Scott) Hurula, Viki Payton, daughter-in-law Juli Payton, six grandchildren, siblings, family and friends.