Toni Rogers-Payne, 85, aided the needy

Thelma Bernice Rogers-Payne led a star-studded life before settling down in her native Philadelphia to various jobs and as a benefactor to needy people in her neighborhood.

Thelma, or Toni, as she was called by family and friends, grew up in the city with a passion for music.

She was an aspiring vocalist when she met and married the late Bert Payne, a featured guitarist with the Louis Jordan Band.

Although she didn't sing with the band, she traveled with it around the country and had the pleasure of meeting many celebrities.

Toni died Sept. 8. She was 85 and lived in West Philadelphia.

After many years on the road with the Jordan Band, Toni settled in New York City and began a stint as a singing waitress at Sid Allen's famous restaurant in Englewood Cliffs, N.J. The eatery catered to the rich and famous, as well as entertainers, and, once again, Toni got to rub shoulders with celebrities.

While in New York, Toni was proud to have been the first person confirmed by Bishop Harold Louis Wright, after his consecration as an Episcopal bishop.

In 1980, she came back to Philadelphia to be with her ailing mother. She was born in Philadelphia to Angel and Elizabeth White Rogers.

She attended West Philadelphia High School before her singing talent launched her into the world of show business.

She was employed in clerical positions with the city Revenue Department, the former Women's Hospital, a law firm and Sears.

Toni not only took care of her parents, but also looked after neighbors as well, taking the elderly to the doctor, grocery store and elsewhere, and helping them with their banking. She even cooked their meals.

She became an active member of St. Thomas Episcopal Church.

"Her wonderful sense of humor, experiences and love of life touched the hearts of people of all generations, of all races and nationalities," her family wrote in an obituary.

"She could converse on nearly any subject - music, entertainment, sports, especially tennis, and for the past 20 years, never missed the family Super Bowl party."

When asked why she took on so much in her life, her response was, "Because I can."

She is survived by a sister, Janet Rogers-Scott, and a brother, Howard Rogers.

Services: 11 a.m. today at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 6361 Lancaster Ave. Friends may call at 10 a.m.

Burial will be in Rolling Green Memorial Park, West Chester.