Mary Jeanne Palmer
I have known Mary Jeanne all of my life. We live across the street from Mary's & her parent's home, as did my grandparents. Ever since I was a little girl, Mary was always around, saying hello and letting us play in her yard, having garage sales for water wells in third world countries, and sharing life stories with my children. In the last few years, we mowed the lawn, shoveled snow, and checked in. I can not say enough about what a great person Mary was and will always be. Every time I look at the birdbath she gave me, I will fondly remember Mary Jeanne, as will my children.
Peggy Petersen Cross
Cedar Rapids
IA
Miss Palmer was my 2nd grade teacher at Kenwood Elementary in the 1950's. She had a great reputation, even among the school kids. Her class was considered the best. I remember putting on a play for students in other classes. Once she made several of us stay in the room during recess, because we got behind in our workbooks. We liked her so much, it didn't seem to be much of a penalty. We continued to bump into each other for many years afterward. One time we happened to see each other while trout fishing near Manchester. She was there with her parents. I was fishing with my wife, who was an elementary teacher in Cedar Rapids. We did some catching up, along with catching trout. It was a good day. We had a lot of good days in 2nd grade. I continue to be thankful for those special teachers who became friends too.
James Allen
Cedar Rapids
IA
As a member of the Alburnett, Iowa High School graduating class of 1949, I had the privilege of being one of Miss Palmer's students. It was my good fortune that our lives crossed paths occasionally in the intervening nearly sixty years. The last time was in 1999 when she was in Alburnett to attend the Rockwwood family estate auction. Mary Jeanne's warm and compassionate personality enveloped those around her. Her enthusiasm for learning and teaching was contagious. May she be aware of the positive influence she had on many lives. She was a role model and an inspiration.
Dave Etzel
Marion
IA
Miss Palmer was my 4th grade homeroom teacher at Kenwood Elementary in the early 1960s and was one of my absolutely all-time favorite teachers. It was because of her that I decided to become a teacher, and although I got side-tracked into other careers over the years, I've still ended up teaching English in China, which I think she would have loved to know. In an age when it was ok for teachers to let students know how much they cared she always let us know how much she valued us. Her warm cheery smile welcomed us everyday and made school something to look forward to. The world of education has lost an incomparable ambassador. My heartfelt condolences to her family.
Molly Herrington
Guangzhou
- Other -
P.R. China
You have always lived in my heart of hearts as a loving guiding light--a dear aunt who devoted her life to her parents and the interests of children. I so loved the special programs at St. Paul's that we shared through my growing up years, the wonderful family picnics and your marvelous bell collection. I can't begin to count the books you gave me, but most special was the story of Ruth as Grandma Palmer always referred to my mom as her Ruth. Thanks for the precious memories and God bless.
Marjory Morrissey
Centennial
CO
I didn't get the pleasure of knowing Mary Jeanne for very long but in the short time i knew her, she left a lasting impression. I was one of the 4 people who helped Mary Jeanne get her house ready to sell when she moved to the Methwick Community; I greatly enjoyed her company that day! Mary Jeanne always had a smile on her face and a story to share. My thoughts and prayers are with Mary Jeanne and her family.
Kassie Weber
Cedar Rapids
IA
I worked with Mary Jeanne on her peronal insurance at Millhiser Smith Agency. I always enjoyed speaking with Mary Jeanne. She was a very gracious person. When Mary Jeanne needed a hand moving out of her life-long home, a team of us from Millhiser Smith assisted. It was amazing to see all the artifacts that Mary Jeanne collected from her travels. She was a beautiful person, and I believe that she had a very full life. When Mary Jeanne came to visit the office, we all lit up a little bit. I think we all feel that our lives are a little better for knowing her. She will be missed dearly.
Tara Pape
Cedar Rapids
IA
We were saddened to learn of Mary Jeanne's passing. We will always remember her at gatherings of both family and friends. Even though Mary Jeanne was not the hostess, she always was concerned and made sure everyone was comfortable and had what they needed ---always agreeable and fun to be around.. On our mission trip to Honduras, she was roommate and work partner with Patricia. They tied re-bar rods together for use in the foundation of a new dormitory. Also carried lots of long boards up and down steep hills for use in the sidewalk canopy. Patricia was glad to help her get moved to Meth-Wick. Mary Jeanne had great plans for her new home and we were so sorry she didn't get to carry them out. We will be unable to attend her funeral because we are committed to travel to Michigan for our grandaughter's graduation activities. Please accept our sympathy.