Oldest Utahn celebrates 107th birthday


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PROVO — A Utah woman is celebrating her 107th birthday, winning her the title of the oldest living person in the Beehive State.

Beatrice Payne was quite the celebrity at her big birthday bash Friday. Friends and family gathered at the Courtyard at Jamestown in her honor.

Those who know and love her shared their favorite memories of a woman whose impact has spanned generations. Payne has one daughter, five grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren — many of whom attended her big party.

“I remember when I was little and I used to have sleepovers with her in her big purple bed,” said great-granddaughter Shelby Sanders. “She’s so sweet and we love her. It’s really cool to know someone who is 107 years old.”

Granddaughter Sheryl Merkley marveled at her grandmother’s strength through the years.

“I would describe my grandmother as a hardworking, faithful woman who has seen many, many changes in our world through her 107 years,” she said.

Payne’s sister, LaVon Montelius, described her as an “elegant, delightful person.”

“She’s a very strong person and always has been,” she said. “She’s set goals all of her life and she worked for them.”

It was a special day, not only for Payne, but for those who love her.

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