Gary Mark Palmer Sr.
Gary Mark Palmer Sr. moved to his celestial home on July 20, 2025, at the age of 86.
Gary was born on Jan. 6, 1939. He was born in the evening after his parents had spent the day moving to their new home, which was down the road from Okee’s family’s home in Flatwoods, Lexington.
He spent his elementary school years at Meson Academy and then went to Arnoldsville High School until his last year, when he went to the new high school in Lexington.
He then joined the military. He served in the Air Force as a weatherman. After leaving the Air Force, he returned to Oglethorpe County. He had a few different jobs then settled on construction, which he retired from at age 79.
He was the son of the late Okee Hood Palmer and Pearl Louise Palmer of Lexington.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years, six months and one day: Naomi Anthony Palmer.
Father to: Gary Mark Palmer Jr. and his wife Rhonda; Troy Dean Palmer and his wife Kelly; Jeremy Michael Palmer and his wife Jesse, and Nicholas Adam Palmer and his wife Alicia.
Grandfather (or Papa) to: Adam Palmer, Brittany Palmer, Jared Palmer and his wife Ashley Rae, Aaron Palmer, Noah Palmer and his wife, Kristy Palmer, Ruuk Lancaster, Julia Palmer, Izabella Palmer, Amery Palmer, Nichole Nyman, Christopher Cantwell, and Katie Marleau.
Great-grandpa to: Elijah Palmer, Gabriel Palmer, Carter Neathery, Brooks Neathery, Zayden Rayburn and Jayden Palmer.
He was preceded in death by two brothers: Charles Edward Palmer and Marvin Palmer.
To know him was to love him. He will be greatly missed.
A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3 at Stevens Grove Baptist Church (707 Stevens Grove Church Road, Lexington 30648). Gary loved the Georgia Bulldogs, so to honor him at his celebration of life, wear your red and black colors.
In lieu of flowers, Gary loved to spend time with family and friends. To honor Gary, call up a family member or friend that you have not seen in a while and take them out for a meal to catch up with them. Then text or message me about it. Call and make a date with them now so you don’t forget.
Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at berryfh.com.
Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is assisting the family of Gary Mark Palmer Sr.