Margaret Sondra Payne, 86, of Middletown, passed away on June 19, 2025, at Water’s Edge Center for Care & Rehabilitation.  Born in New Haven, she was the daughter of the late John and Vincenza (Esposito) Payne.

Margaret lived in Durham most of her life, graduating from Durham High School as Valedictorian of the Class of 1957.  She went on to college graduating from the University of Connecticut in 1961.  She was employed by the State of Connecticut Department of Labor for her entire career.  Margaret was an avid UCONN Women’s Basketball fan, enjoyed travelling and loved her cats and dogs.

Margaret is survived by a niece Diana Payne and her partner Thomas Dyer of Middletown.

Along with her parents, Margaret was predeceased by her brother John A. Payne, Jr.

A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Margaret’s memory may be made to the Durham Public Library, 7 Maple Avenue, Durham, CT 06422 or the Connecticut Humane Society, 701 Russell Road, Newington, CT 06111.  To share memories or send condolences, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.