John L. Palmer

John Lee Palmer passed away May 23, 2018 in Helena, Arkansas at the age of 80. He was born on February 5, 1938 in Helena, Arkansas. He was the son of Mr. Elijah Palmer and Annie Mae Humphries. John was a member of the First Missionary Baptist Church of Midland Heights until his health failed. John was a people’s person, so it was not possible to be in his presence long and he not know something about you and your family ties. He loved gardening, even though he probably gave more of the produce away than kept for himself. Most people that knew him would probably agree he found joy in constant contact with family, friends, and neighbors. John worked for several industries in the Helena-West Helena area. His longest tenure being at McKnight Mill, from which he eventually retired. He remained active after retirement as much as health would allow, up until his hour arrived. He will be missed by many. John is preceded in death by his father; Elijah Palmer, Sr., his mother; Annie Mae Humphries, three sisters; Leona Young, Bernice Cole, Louise Coleman, four brothers; Elijah Palmer, Jr., Joseph Lee Palmer, Sylvester Palmer, and Noble Vance. John is survived by three sisters; Mildred Byrd of Chicago IL, Helen Vance of Kenosha WI, Wonda Vance of Kenosha WI, three brothers; Edward Charles Palmer of Philadelphia PA, Curtis Vance of Cave City AR, Earnest Palmer Vance of Batesville AR, special nephew; Bradford Coleman, special great great nephew; Lee Tucker, Jr., and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.