Amber Lynn Payne

Amber Lynn Payne, age 36, of LaPorte, passed away tragically on Thursday, May 7, 2026, in Porter County.

Born on January 9, 1990, in Riverside, Amber was the beloved daughter of Rebekah Bates Thomas. She graduated from high school in Riverside in 2008 and later attended Ultimate Medical Academy. For the last year, Amber worked as a clerk at Family Express on Fail Road, where her warm personality, strong work ethic, and friendly smile made a lasting impression on both her coworkers and the many customers she served.

Amber was many things to those who loved her — a devoted wife, a loving mother, a cherished daughter, sister, and friend. She possessed a heart big enough for everyone she met and had a rare gift for making others feel welcome and valued. Her vibrant “firecracker” personality brought energy and laughter wherever she went, and once Amber set her mind to something, her determination was unwavering.

She was creative in every sense of the word. Amber loved crocheting and crafting, finding joy in making beautiful things with her hands. She had a deep love for music and dancing, and her spirited nature could brighten even the darkest room. Those who knew her will remember her as a hardworking woman whose strength, kindness, and creativity touched countless lives.

Above all else, Amber loved her family. Her children were the center of her world, and she treasured every moment spent with them. The love she gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Amber is survived by her loving husband, Robert Allen Payne, Jr.; her four beloved children, Abel, Bryce, Cyra, and Deegan; her mother, Rebekah Thomas; sisters, Dawn McCullough (Teri), Donna Allen (Morgan), Sheena Kabowski-Shock (Richard), Hailee Sekula, Teri Ann Kabowski, Tina Osborn (Walter), Jackie Thomas, and Sharon Rancatore; brothers, Randy Thomas, Junior Thomas, Tim Thomas, Tommy Kabowski, Dale Sekula (Bry), William Walker, Future Kabowski (Kayla), and Randall Kabowski (Kayla).She also leaves behind many extended family members, friends, and all who were blessed to know and love her. Amber was preceded in death by her father, the late Ralph Thomas, Sr.

Funeral services for Amber will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Visitation will take place at the funeral home from 11:00 AM until the time of service. Cremation will follow.

Though her time here was far too short, Amber’s love, laughter, and unforgettable spirit will live on through the countless lives she touched. Her fierce devotion to her children and family, her compassionate heart, and her vibrant personality will never be forgotten. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.