He was a retired Air Conditioning Technician having worked for York International and Carrier, a United States Army Veteran of the Korean War, a Christian and was of the Baptist faith. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a daughter, Lona Louise Palmer; and thirteen siblings, Mary Leana Palmer Priest, Lora "Sis" Juanita Palmer Gibson, Freeman Augustus Palmer, Donald Palmer, Edna Palmer Berryman, Roy Charles Palmer, James Harold Palmer, J.D. Palmer, William "Jerry" Palmer, Clara Lorene Palmer Box Pierce, Richard "Dick" Riley Palmer, Sr., Toney Palmer and Teddy Palmer. Jimmy was a loving husband, father, grandfather and a faithful friend to many. He enjoyed traveling, hunting, fishing, gardening and being with his friends and family.
Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Sammie Donaldson Palmer of Maumelle; three sons, Jimmy Dell Palmer, Jr. and wife Kathy of Ozark, John David Palmer and wife Laura of Russellville and Joe Don Palmer and wife Cherie of Benton; one sister, Jody Rash of Monticello; two sisters-in-law, Kathleen Palmer of Warren and Louise Palmer of Monticello; eight grandchildren, Kristen, Rebecca, Joseph, Krystin, Erick, Isabella, Illias and Gabriella; two great-grandchildren, Sean and Lukas; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, August 12, 2016 at Stephenson-Dearman Chapel with burial to follow in Oakland Cemetery in Monticello with military honors. Visitation 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday evening at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Alzheimer's of Arkansas, 210 North Walton Ave. #25, Bentonville, AR 72712. Online guestbook at www.stephensondearman.com.
Condolences(11)
Mike Mathis
Cabot, AR Thursday, August 11, 2016 Jim was a really nice guy and one of the best customers that I ever had. Don't think that I ever saw him mad at anyone or anything. Praying for God to comfort you in this time.Bud and Carolyn Pearrow
Cabot, AR Thursday, August 11, 2016 Sammie and family, our condolences to each of you, We have many fond memories of Jim and Sammie as we all enjoyed Square Dancing together many years ago. Lots of good fellowship, and many lasting memories. Jim was a fun guy to be around. May God give each of you peace at this sad time.Clarissa Smith
Little Rock,, AR Thursday, August 11, 2016 So sorry for the family's loss, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Jimmy was a friend to all, and will be missed.Gary Pharis
Little Rock, AR Thursday, August 11, 2016 Sorry for your loss. Prayers for the family.Gary
Travis Bradford
Conway, AR Thursday, August 11, 2016 I claimed him as my friend also his son Jim JR . I have a lot respect for him . I think both thought of me as a friend I hope so. I'm sorry because of physical things I cant be at his funeral. Best wishes TboneNicholas Russell
columbus, OH Thursday, August 11, 2016 Please accept my most sincere condolences Sammie and Jimmy.Jim was like Family to me. I think it took me a while to earn his respect; but we eventually became great friends and co-workers.
The best of times - The worst of times.
The memory of Jimmy Dell Palmer Sr. will always remain with me; like a smile.
Rest well dear friend.
Jackie and Ilene Berry Rash
Longview, TX Thursday, August 11, 2016 Sammie and Family,We are very sorry to hear of Jimmy's passing. He was a good friend during our school years. We will remember y'all coming to our 50 the and us going to yours. A great time was had at both Parties. Long friendships are special.
You and the family are in our prayers and our thoughts.
Our deepest sympathy to all of you.
Jackie and Ilene
Ann Donham Nutt
N. Little Rock, AR Thursday, August 11, 2016 We will miss our big guy.. A great friend.James & Mary Lasiter
Wilmar, AR Wednesday, August 10, 2016 So very sorry for your loss. James worked with Lorene for years. We miss her still. Prayers for the family.Joe Chambers
Monticello, AR Wednesday, August 10, 2016 Sammie and children, So sorry to hear of the passing of Jim. His folks and my folks were very close friends and neighbors, therefore, Jim and I had no choice but to be friends We spent much time together doing things we could talk about and things that shouldn't be mentioned. When Jim and Sammie were hijacked and held hostage was the most international event that I have ever encountered. Their 50th wedding anniversary was most memorable Jean and I really enjoyed their visit with us July 2014. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.Bruce Daniel
Springdale,, AR Wednesday, August 10, 2016 Rest in peace, Jim. You were like a brother to me and taught me so much. You left too soon.