Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and true friend, Jerry Lee Palmer, returned to his Heavenly Father on December 10, 2021.
Jerry was born August 18, 1933 to Berle and Afton Palmer in Salt Lake City, Utah. Jerry married his eternal companion, Ruth Carlene Johnson, on July 15, 1960.
Jerry was a man of exceptional integrity and honesty. Jerry honorably served in the US Navy during the Korean War. It was during this time that his testimony of Jesus Christ and membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was solidified. He remained true to the faith for the rest of his life.
Jerry earned his Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of Utah and was a lifelong Utah Man (Ki-yi!) and worked as Controller at Gibbons and Reed for more than 40 years. Jerry loved going on fishing adventures, listening to and dancing to big band music, and passed on his love for travel and well planned itineraries to his kids. He was always there for his family, who in turn admired and loved him dearly. He was a steadfast friend with ongoing friendships lasting nearly 70 years. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his wife Carlene, his children: Mark (Anne) Palmer, Stacey (Mat) Hutchings, and LeeAnn (Boyd) Evans, 13 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by parents, brothers and sisters, and his beloved parents in-law.
Memorial services will be Friday, December 17th at the Parkway Ward building located at 12120 South 1300 West. A visitation will be held from 10:00-11:30 am, followed by a memorial service at noon. Friends and relatives are invited to attend. Funeral directors, Larkin Mortuary.
Those unable to attend, please click on the "Watch Services" tab at the top right of the obituary. You will need to be signed into a zoom account in order to view the services.
Jerry Lee Palmer was a wonderful friend and member of Sacra Dolce Chorus, a choir and social group from the 1950's and he remained active at the senior group events until the recent pandemic. We will miss you Jerry with your positive happy smile and friendly caring for others. We know you will be happy to see your family and friends that have gone before you. We will all look forward to meeting and being with you again someday.
I was saddened to learn of Jerry’s passing - my thoughts and prayers are with you all - I was not able to break away from work to attend the service but was able to listen in virtually - what a beautiful tribute! Jerry was a great neighbor - we had a wonderful life growing up in that neighborhood - so many great people and so many memories… I always remember his kindness and gentle demeanor. May you all find peace and comfort during this time off sorrow.
Dear Carlene & family,
Dave and I enjoyed knowing Jerry and associating with him in the Grant 12th Ward. Jerry was a personable man with many talents and abilities. I'm sorry I didn't know when his funeral was until I just found the information tonight, the 18th. I have empathy for you since Dave passed away in April of this year. I pray for you to receive the comfort and peace that is found in the Plan of Salvation.
My sympathy and love, Gerri Coombs
Carlene I always find it difficult to write a condolence message. I know from Anne and Mark that Jerry has been having problems for awhile. It is always good for us to remember the times we have shared with your family. We are sorry for your loss, but Jerry is doing fine now.
I want to share something I have learned about people on the "other side". They are not very far away. Occasions may arise when you need some special assistance and Jerry will be able to give you guidance.
I peak from personal experience with Janet.
We send our love. Bob and Diane