Jimmy Lee Palmer

Jimmy Lee Palmer - 75 years young Born: February 20, 1948 Died: May 14, 2023 Surrounded by family, Jimmy passed away peacefully, after his battle with cirrhosis of the liver. His memory lives on with his wife, Mary Ann Palmer; daughter Julie Darlene Palmer Swift and family Kenny, Zoe, and Trinity; son David Palmer and family Michelle, Galyn, Jenna, and Samantha Cunningham and family Todd and Greyson; son Jason Palmer; stepdaughter Shelby Morgan Spriggs and family Cody, Jamison, Eleanor; sister Brenda Palmer Wilhelm and husband Gary; sister Debbie Palmer Morgan and husband Pat; sister Vicki Palmer Yancy and husband Charles; and many nieces and nephews. Jimmy was born in St. Louis, Missouri, to James and Christine Palmer. The family moved to Meadowbrook, Illinois, to get away from city life. He graduated from Civic Memorial High School in Bethalto, Illinois, in 1965, and went to work for Olin Corporation until he was drafted into the Navy at the age of 19. He served four years as a Navy Corpsman. His naval career started with training at Great Lakes Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. He was then sent to Vietnam, stationed on the front lines with the 3rd Marine Division as their medic. Once a Marine, always a Marine, and he was revered by any Marine that he met. Upon returning home, he discovered that Olin Corporation had saved his job for him and kept his seniority as if he had been working there the entire time he was in the Navy. He also served as a volunteer in the Fire Department in the Meadowbrook/Bethalto area. He then took a job with Moog Automotive and retired at the age of 60. At that time, he was married to Jennie and they moved to Eureka Springs, Arkansas. One year after her death from lung cancer, he met Mary Ann and moved to Kansas City to be with her. They married in 2015 and lived in Shawnee, Kansas. Jimmy loved his family very much and spoke highly of his sisters. He enjoyed spending time with his daughter's family Julie and Kenny and was very proud of the accomplishments of their daughters Zoe and Trinity. His stepdaughter Shelby gave him the honor of taking care of her children, Jamison and Eleanor, and he treated them as his own grandchildren. The impact he has left on their lives will be felt for years to come. In lieu of flowers, please consider helping Veterans in your area. They served our country and Jimmy would appreciate your taking the time to help them in any way you feel moved to. There will be no formal service.

Jimmy Lee Palmer

February 20, 1948 - May 14, 2023