Obituary of Linda J. Payne

Payne, Linda J. of Irondequoit passed away on Thursday, January 6, 2022. She was predeceased by her parents, Victor and Evelyn (McVinnie) Payne. Linda is survived by her husband of 25 years Atilla Dilek, sister Karen Payne, brother Glen Payne, brother in-law Richard Polsky, sister in-law Louette Strobeck Payne, and nephew Ryan Polsky.

Linda was a graduate of Eastridge High School and the Eastman School of Music Preparatory Department. She graduated from Ashland College with a degree in Education and taught elementary and high school students before returning to graduate school. She completed her academic studies at the University of Dayton, achieving a Ph.D. in Language Arts Education. Linda went on to share her love of language as a Professor of Elementary Education and Reading in the Department of Teacher Education at Northern Michigan University in Marquette, MI and at Clarion University in Clarion, PA.

After being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, Linda returned to her home base in Rochester, NY. She devoted the remaining chapters of her life to on going learning and teaching. Her 25 year marriage to her husband Atilla was a source of many moments of joy and constant learning. Linda will be remembered by all who knew her by her irreverent sense of humor, love of books and classical music, and her courageous perseverance in her challenges with Multiple Sclerosis.

Memorial Services will be held at a later date, when public health conditions are safe for congregant gatherings. Interment will take place in White Haven Memorial Park, also at an appropriate future time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Literacy Rochester or the Al Sigl Community of Agencies, in Linda's memory.