In Loving Memory of Mary Lou Palmer

Mary Lou Palmer, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2026 at the age of 93, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on February 12, 1933, in Mitchell, Kansas, Mary Lou lived a long and beautiful life filled with family, friendship, fellowship, and countless memories. She was a devoted mother and wife who dedicated much of her life to caring for and supporting her family. Her love was steady and always there when her family or friends needed it.

Mary Lou was married to her high school sweetheart, Frank Galen Palmer and they spent 73 joyful years together. While raising three boys she also worked in the library at Independence High School for 19 years and was a devoted member of the P.E.O. Kansas State Chapter, where women motivate, educate and celebrate women. She was a proud lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church where she participated in the choir and countless other volunteer positions.

She will be remembered for her goodwill, her unconditional love, and the warmth she shared with those lucky enough to know her. Mary Lou enjoyed traveling, reading, music and her church community, but her greatest joy was spending time with her family. Some of her best times spent with her family included many summer trips down to Grand Lake, where her children and grandchildren made lifelong memories together. She also loved cheering on her favorite teams including the Royals, Chiefs and the Jayhawks.

She is survived by her husband, Frank Galen Palmer; her children, Craig Palmer (wife Angela) of Wichita, KS, and Mark Palmer (wife Secely) of Kansas City, MO; grandchildren, Jeremy Palmer, Lauren Kiesling, Chloe Palmer, Allie Nielsen, Evan Palmer, and Nick Palmer; as well as 6 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son Jeffrey Galen Palmer.

While her family is deeply saddened by her passing, they find comfort in knowing that she lived a long, meaningful life. She will be missed more than words can express and will remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

A visitation will be held at 1pm on September 8, 2026 at the First United Methodist Church in Independence, Kansas.  A celebration of Mary Lou Palmer’s life will follow at 2pm at the First United Methodist Church in Independence, KS.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First United Methodist Church of Independence, KS.