Sue M. Payne (Petersen), affectionately known to many as “Suzie,” age 93, passed away peacefully at her residence in Winchester, Virginia, on Monday, June 15, 2026.

Born Lois May Peterson on May 1, 1933, in Stanton, Nebraska, she was the daughter of the late William Dye Petersen and Lillian Petersen (Hansen). Suzie was a proud 1951 graduate of Stanton High School in Nebraska.

Throughout her life, Suzie lived across the country, weaving a vibrant story wherever she went. In her early years, she loved working for the American Greeting Card Company in Southern California. She moved to Reno, Nevada, in 1973, where she dedicated many years of her life working as a compassionate caregiver for the State of Nevada until her retirement. In 2022, she relocated to Winchester, Virginia.

Suzie’s greatest joy was her family, but she also had a wonderful zest for life and an array of favorite pastimes. She was a devoted dog lover who cherished her many canine companions throughout the years. An avid card player, she could often be found enjoying a game of rummy or solitaire. She also loved gambling, especially video poker, where she famously always “knew how to pick the machines.”

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Laurence “Sonny” Butterfield (married in 1951); her second husband, Howard Merlis (married in 1962); and her cherished, longtime companion of over 40 years, Jerry Payne, who passed away in 2017. She was also preceded in death by her daughters, Cheryl K. Jones; her son, Tedd L. Butterfield; her sister, Carolyn Belle Isle; and her brothers, Dennis Petersen, and Kenneth Petersen.

Suzie leaves behind a large, loving legacy. She is survived by her daughters, Cynthia “Cindy” S. Butterfield, and Jodi L. Jung; her sons, Todd W. Butterfield (and significant other, Christine Ware) and Jason W. Merlis (and significant other, Kelly Ross). She was the proud grandmother of 11 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are being handled privately.

In honor of Suzie’s love for animals, the family suggests that any memorial contributions be made to a local animal rescue or shelter of your choice.