Donald Palmer

Donald ‘Don’ Anthony Palmer, 81, passed away on November 3rd, 2024. Don was born on January 5th, 1943. He is survived by his wife Marion Williams Palmer of Demorest, Georgia, son Justin Palmer (Elisa) of Hamilton, Alabama, daughters Sonya Tanner (Ricky) of Demorest, Georgia, Melissa Wimpy (Doug) of Dahlonega, Georgia, brother Richard Palmer (Gaylon) of Ridgecrest, California, and half-sister Misty Hawthorne of Americus, Georgia. He is also survived by his grandchildren; Daniel, Katie, Lauren, and Megan Palmer of Westerville, Ohio, Seth and Jessie Palmer of Clermont, Georgia, Charles Wimpy of Dahlonega, Georgia, Craig Tanner (Christian) of Demorest, Georgia, Lenay Gerrin (Brice) of Mt. Airy, Georgia, Emma Ables, Christian, Adrionna, and Makenzy Hileman of Hamilton, Alabama and his great-grandchildren Mason Dawe, Riley Tanner, Ezekiel and Oakleigh Gerrin. Don was preceded in death by his parents Paul and Thelma Palmer, son Donald Eric Palmer, sisters Rebecca Buford and Patricia Nelson, two nephews, Brent Nix and Greg Buford. Don had many interests, to name a few; Astronomy, Petrology (the study of rocks and minerals), Hunting, Fishing, and Gardening. He loved all living and growing things, both plants and animals. He had several jobs during his lifetime, but the one he loved the most was 32 years of working at Truett McConnell College, now Truett McConnell University in Cleveland, Georgia, where he treasured the friendship of presidents, professors, staff and many students. Don was returned to his beloved state of Tennessee, where he is buried in the private Williams Cemetery in Monroe, Tennessee. His graveside service, which was officiated by Marion Palmer, also included an honor military guard. Don was a veteran of the Army National Guard from 1964-1970. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, which includes his heart family, the Bryson’s of Clermont, Georgia. He will especially be missed by Leslie, Lauren, Jace, Sailor, and Palin who called him “Papa Don”. To share a memory or to leave an online condolence for the family, please visit www.barrettfh.com Barrett Funeral Home, Cleveland. (706) 865 - 3101