PALMER
Rachel Helen Palmer, 92, of Farmington, Iowa, went to be with her Lord and Savior at 9:45 a.m. Sunday, January 7, 2024, at her home in Farmington. Rachel had been suffering with dementia for a number of years and was unable to attend church so on this Sunday, it was surprisingly special for her to finally be in church with her departed loved ones and her redeemer, Jesus Christ.
She was born on February 16, 1931, in Charlotte, Iowa, the daughter of Edward John and Ellen Sophia (Schelin) Vance. Rachel grew up on a farm near DeWitt until 1947, when her parents bought a farm in Farmington, Iowa, where she finished her high school years and graduated as valedictorian of her class.
On December 10, 1950, she married Raymond Guy Palmer, Jr. at the First Baptist Church of Farmington, Iowa. He preceded her in death on October 25, 2008.
Together, Ray and Rachel bought a farm where she lived until her passing. She raised chickens and milked eight cows until her son began school. She then started working outside the home for Sheaffer Pen Corporation, Ortho Fertilizer Plant and Eagle Summit Childcare along with other jobs. Rachel enjoyed working in her flower beds and gardens. She also loved her cats, dogs, horses and cattle. Rachel loved her family dearly and was always a dedicated helper in times of need, even when her nephews asked for her trademark apple pies. Rachel was a member of the First Baptist Church of Wayland, in Wayland, Missouri and she sang in the family’s Blue Grass Gospel group.
She is survived by her son: Gary (Judy) Palmer of Farmington, Iowa and several nieces, nephews, great and great great nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband: Ray; two brothers: Edward and Robert Vance; sister: Ellen Boyer; brother-in-law: Phil Alarie; sister-in-law: LaVerna and several nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at Schmitz Funeral Home in Farmington.
Memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at Schmitz Funeral Home in Farmington with Pastor Dan Deatrick officiating.
Burial will be at Greenglade Cemetery in Farmington.
A memorial has been established in her memory.
Schmitz Funeral Home of Farmington is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family at
www.schmitzfuneralhomes.com.
