Jackie Lee Palmer was born January 4, 1934, in Albia, Iowa, to Harry C. Palmer Sr. and Elizabeth Elsie Palmer (Thornton-Smith). Jack grew up in Clinton, Missouri, where he played on the Clinton High School men’s basketball team. He graduated high school in 1952 then enlisted June 16, 1952, to the Navy. He served active duty until September 1972 then the remaining 10 years until July 1, 1982, as a reserve. Jack spent time on the USS Mitchell, USS Koiner, USS Wasp, USS Wyandot, a Radio Station Cutter, USS Saratoga and USS Biddle. After retirement from the Navy, Jack worked in retail and retired from Kmart after 20 years of service.
While driving down a road in Seattle, Washington, Jack and a buddy heard another car honk at them pointing at their Missouri license plate, they pulled over. The two women in the car that honked were also from Missouri and after a conversation they all decided to go out. That night turned into 65 years of marriage to Evelyn “Grace” O’Dell, starting on May 18, 1958, and ending August 16, 2023.
Jack is survived by his wife, Grace; children, Jesse “Mark” Palmer (Kathy), Jahnna Lea Griffin (Daniel) and Charlotte Grace Barger; nine grandchildren, Kelly, Stephanie, Emily, Tyler, Trevor, Tanner, Joshua, Myranda, Justice; and eight great-grandchildren.
He was proceeded in death by his parents, Harry, and Elizabeth; three brothers, Kenneth Thornton, James Thornton, and Harry C. Palmer Jr.
Visitation will be held from 1 to 2 p.m., Saturday, August 19, 2023 at North New Garden Church, Excelsior Springs, MO, with service following. Burial with military honors at O’Dell Cemetery.
Arrangements in care of Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Excelsior Springs.
Our Sincere Condolences
So sorry for your loss. Praying that all the memories will bring you peace and comfort today and the days ahead.
Terry Bacon
Grace, Children and family.
Please know I am thinking and praying for all of you in this time of your loss,. Jack was such a wonderful, fun person. Wilbur and I always enjoyed our times together . God Bless all of you. My deepest sympathy.
Kay Brockhoff
