Jantel Michelle Payne

March 16, 1966 – September 7, 2026

Jantel Michelle Payne departed this earth on September 7, 2026, after a brief illness, surrounded by her loving family.Born on March 16, 1966, Jantel was a lifelong part of the New Haven, Connecticut community. She grew up in New Haven, graduated from Richard C Lee High School, and later made her home with her family in Hamden.Jantel was an extraordinarily kind and nurturing mother whose love for her family was at the center of everything she did. She was supportive, empathetic, and deeply devoted to the people she loved. She was also known for her sassy personality and wonderful sense of humor. Her attitude, energy, and ability to bring laughter into a room were uniquely Jantel.A woman of Christian faith, Jantel lived with compassion and a strong belief in putting family first. She was the anchor for her children and family—a source of strength, guidance, love, and encouragement. She believed in leading by example and often reminded her family to “Do better today than what you did yesterday.”Jantel's love extended far beyond her immediate family. She had a special passion for children and for serving her community. She cared deeply about making sure children in New Haven Public Schools had what they needed, especially when it came to having a warm meal. Her commitment went beyond simply doing a job; she genuinely cared about the children and the community. She would stay into the evening hours to help provide dinner for children, giving her time and energy because she believed they deserved to be cared for and supported.Jantel was a dedicated and professional leader who took pride in her work. She was SafeServ certified and carried herself with responsibility and care in her role. More importantly, her greatest leadership was within her family and community, where she consistently showed others what it meant to care, serve, and put people first.Jantel found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. She adored her children and grandchildren and cherished her parents. She loved going to work, visiting museums, walking along the beach, cooking and preparing Southern-style food, and listening to all types of music. She had a special love for her dogs, Missy and Mini, who brought her companionship and joy.Jantel will be remembered for her kindness, nurturing spirit, humor, strength, empathy, and unwavering devotion to her family. Her family will especially miss her presence, her energy, her love, her laughter, and her hugs. The lessons she gave them will remain: love your family, lead with compassion, support one another, and always strive to do better today than you did yesterday.Jantel leaves behind a legacy of love and family that will continue through the people she touched and the lessons she taught.

She is survived by her parents, Eva and Albert Payne; her children, Keith Barnes (Ashley), Keisha Barnes (Joseph), and Isiah Barnes; her grandchildren, Dayana, Dayjon, Briana, Denver, Inariha, and India; her sister, Theresa Lomax (John); and her brothers, Shomant Payne, Ira Mcqueen, George Hutchings, and Andre Craig along with extended family, friends, and all those who loved and cherished her.

She was preceded in death by her partner, Keith Barnes. Jantel's memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday September 19, 2026 at 11am. Visitation is from 10am-11am. Condolences may be expressed at Colonialfunerals.com.