Funeral service celebrates life of 9-year-old girl killed in Brownsville fire

The home, located on Howard Avenue, went up in flames on Jan. 13, and eight family members were saved. The intense conditions on the second floor of the house prevented firefighters from getting to the child in time.

News 12 Staff

Jan 23, 2023, 10:43 PM

Updated 619 days ago

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There was a large outpouring of support Monday night for the family of Payton Thompson – the 9-year-old girl killed when her family's home in Brownsville caught fire earlier this month.
The home, located on Howard Avenue, went up in flames on Jan. 13, and eight family members were saved. The intense conditions on the second floor of the house prevented firefighters from getting to the child in time.
A funeral service celebrated her life at Pleasant Grove Tabernacle where 1,200 people wore hints of pink, Payton’s favorite color.
Family members say she was full of energy and known for her contagious smile.
The Thompson family is well-known in the community with multiple family members being local pastors.
Church officials say they are grateful to be there for a family who has done so much and to provide them with support moving forward.
A GoFundMe campaign is raising money for her funeral expenses and for the family’s search for a new home.