Cover photo for Paytun Bay's Obituary
Paytun Bay Profile Photo

Paytun Bay

March 13, 2006 — December 21, 2024

From Paytun's Mother: 

Paytun Anaia Bay

Sunrise: March 13, 2006 ; Sunset: December 21, 2024


“Payter-Tot” “Pay-Bay”

It is with immense sorrow that I announce the passing of Paytun Anaia Bay at the age of 18 Born on March 13, 2006 in Knoxville TN, she is remembered and celebrated as simply one of the most unique and authentic souls you will ever meet. “Pay Bay” was a kind and energetic young woman who you only needed to meet once in order to be touched and feel her impact. Paytun walked through life full of self-expression, regardless of what others thought, and was never afraid to speak her mind.She had the most kindhearted and empathetic soul who saw the good in everyone, regardless of who they were or where they came from. Her passing reminds us of the importance of compassion, open conversations, and seeking support in times of difficulty.Paytun is preceded in death by her beloved dad Cory Bay.She is survived by her loving mom, April McManus; her sister Taryn Bay; Nephew Jaxton Bay-Henry; sister Mari Bay and husband Brian Kays; Uncle Jason Deger; Joe Dennis Fox who loved her like a grandfather; Adam Robertson, William Kowalewski, Natascha and Lorenzo McNeal as well as so many special family, friends and framily that loved her like their own.

FOREVER YOUNG

Life is about patience and resilience. Each page of each chapter of each book is a lesson in adapting to change and finding beauty in imperfection.


“Payter-Tot”

Her passions were as diverse as her talents – As a child Paytun enjoyed playing video games with her sisters and dad. All three girls had an unbreakable bond and would do everything together as they were growing up. She enjoyed traveling with some of her favorite trips being to Washington D.C., Disney World and Ireland. She enjoyed spending quality time making memories with friends and family, playing chess, fishing, hiking, skateboarding, swimming, and eating tacos.

“Pay-Bay”

Paytun was a vibrant young woman with dreams as vast as the sky! She loved writing poetry, photography, going to church, sunrises, sunsets, swimming, the mountains, gardening, spending time with her friends, and, above all, losing herself in the rhythm at a concert. She was an aspiring body piercer who found joy and fulfillment in the tattoo studios where her spirit and energy shined brightly. Most recently, she obtained her phlebotomy certification and accepted a position at American Esoteric Laboratories.

These Are A Few of Her Favorite Things:

  • Favorite Flower: Gardenias & White Roses

  • Favorite Color: Earthy Green

  • Music: The Growlers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Flipturn & 90’s Alternative

  • Perfume: My Way

Paytun brought beauty and kindness into the world

Paytun Was A Fierce Advocate for mental health awareness, driven by her unwavering desire to help others who were struggling. She possessed an extraordinary ability to see the beauty in the world, even when she struggled to see it within herself. Paytun fought courageously against the challenges of depression, borderline personality disorder, and PTSD. Despite these hardships, she radiated compassion and strength, touching the lives of countless people through her kindness and willingness to listen. Her empathy and understanding made her a beacon of hope, offering light to others even on her darkest days.

Though her journey was tragically short, Paytun’s impact on our lives was profound. She was driven by her own experiences and the heartfelt belief that no one should face their battles alone. Her love, her joy, and her fierce determination to create a better world leave an indelible legacy. In honoring Paytun’s memory, let us remember her not for the struggles she endured but for the joy, love, and strength she shared so generously. Paytun’s legacy lives on in each of us—in every act of kindness, every moment of service, and every time we reach out to help someone in need.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988

Women In Sobriety Paytun’s journey toward sobriety was not linear, but it was marked by resilience, courage, and an unwavering desire to grow and heal. She faced the challenges of substance use disorder with determination, grace, and a deep commitment to bettering herself for the people she loved. Paytun found solace and strength in her recovery community through both Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA). She understood that attending meetings and staying connected to her recovery network were vital steps in becoming the daughter, sister, friend, and person we all cherished so deeply.

Her heart for service shined brightly in her dedication to her home group, where she continually gave of herself to support others on their paths to recovery. Paytun defined service in her own beautiful way: “Being a better person, understanding those around you, and doing your best to ensure everyone feels welcome.” This definition was not just words; it was how she lived her life. 

To Her Home Group: We are forever grateful for the love, guidance, and community you offered Paytun. To her sponsors, her weekly meeting family, and the treatment centers that provided her with the tools and hope she needed—we thank you. You all were her lifeline, her strength, and her inspiration to keep fighting. Paytun is now free from the pain she carried and rests peacefully in the arms of the God of her understanding. Her memory will forever inspire us to extend kindness, embrace second chances, and support one another with open hearts.

If you are someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder or alcohol use, call 1-800-73SOBER 

With Broken Hearts But Grateful Memories,We all love you Paytun beyond words and will remember your gentle smile, warm laugh, twinkling eyes and your footsteps around the house forever. I only wish I could have protected you from this moment of action and dire consequences.

A CELEBRATION OF LIFE

Paytun wrote in her own words “I want nothing more than to be celebrated. Play my favorite songs, eat tacos, dance and sing. I just want everyone to reminisce positively.” All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend and share memories of this remarkable young woman. 

; REMEMBERING THE MOMENTS THAT MADE HER SPECIAL ;

March 13, 2025 through March 16, 2025

2851 Sequoia 

Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

In lieu of flowers, we request that donations be made to either :

(please indicate the donation is in Paytun Bay’s memory)

  • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in her honor online at www.afsp.org 

  • Metropolitan Drug Coalition, ATTN: Webster Bailey, 530 W 5th Ave, Knoxville, TN 37917 or online at www.metrodrug.org

You are also encouraged to share a memory of Paytun and/or your personal condolences with her family by visiting her memorial webpage and guestbook at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home and the Cody family are honored to assist his family with these arrangements.

Photo Gallery

Guestbook

Visits: 930

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors