Edward Allen Palmer

Edward Allen Palmer, lovingly known as "Eddie," a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away surrounded by family on November 29, 2024, at the age of 81. Born on March 17, 1943, in Pineville, South Carolina, Eddie was the eighth son of the late Reverend John, Sr. and Annie Gadsden Palmer.

Eddie spent his formative years in Miami, Florida, where he developed a deep love for family, sports, and building meaningful connections. He graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1962 and remained an active alumnus throughout his life, cherishing opportunities to reconnect with classmates. During his school years, Eddie displayed natural leadership, serving as vice president of the student council at Dunbar Middle School and as an active community member in his neighborhood of Overton Miami.

In 1961, Eddie relocated to Newark, New Jersey, where he met Frances Paige, who became the love of his life. They married on June 29, 1963, and began their family in Newark. Over the years, their journey took them to Yorktown, Virginia, in 1975; Miami, Florida, in 1979; and back to Virginia in 1981, where their youngest child was born. They eventually settled in Williamsburg, Virginia, for 20 years before building their forever home in Gloucester, Virginia, in 2002. The Gloucester home became a cherished gathering place, offering space for their grandchildren to run, play, and create lasting memories.

Eddie was a skilled HVAC-certified technician who dedicated over 40 years as a maintenance manager for various apartment communities. He was more than a technician—he was a mentor, advocate, and friend to countless families. Known –for his warm smile and generous spirit, Eddie went above and beyond to help others, often assisting with moves, repairs, and advocacy. Even after retirement, he revisited the communities he served, greeted with joy and fondness by all who remembered his kindness.

Family was the center of Eddie’s life-he LOVED his family (allllll of them), and his family LOVED HIM!!! Coming from a large family, he had over fifty nieces and nephews and their children, which he made sure he knew all their names - that was a special talent that made each one feel special and loved. He took immense pride in his home, ensuring his yard, car, and riding mower were meticulously maintained. A lifelong Miami Dolphins fan, Eddie never missed watching a Sunday game and found joy in basketball, tennis, and photography. He captured life’s special moments and loved sharing pictures of his grandchildren with a beaming smile. He ensured that every family event was documented by pictures and videos, making lasting memories!!

Those who knew Eddie will remember his unmistakable joy whenever he exclaimed, “Alriiiiiiight!”—a signature phrase that captured his happiness and positivity. He was a constant source of encouragement, often saying, “I’m happy to wake up this morning—that means I’m doing fine.”

Eddie was preceded in death by his wife, Frances; his daughter, Edwina Waring-Lisbon; his grandson, DeCorey Palmer; and his brothers William Palmer, Josiah Palmer, Louis Palmer, Nehemiah Palmer, and George Palmer.

He is survived by his children: Edward (Kelly) Palmer, Jeffery Palmer, Melanie (Tony) Stroud, and Tyree (Melissa) Palmer; son-in-law, Vaughan Lisbon, Sr.; his grandchildren: Michael Sanders, Vaughan Lisbon Jr., Devin Stroud, Darius Palmer, Kiara Palmer, Jared Stroud, Makayla Palmer, Aniyah Palmer, T’kiyah Palmer, Niaysiah Palmer, Nelson Palmer, and Logan Palmer; his great-grandchild: Zaire Taylor; his brothers: John Palmer, Leroy (Joanne) Palmer, Jacob (Carolyn) Palmer, James (Sandra) Palmer, Sam (Mary) Palmer, and Herbert (Naomi) Palmer; sisters-in-law Alice Palmer, Patsy Palmer, Linda Palmer, and Jahnyce Palmer; and a host of loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends who became family.

Eddie’s warmth, kindness, unwavering love and heartfelt hugs will forever live in the hearts of those who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will take place December 14, 2024 @ 1:00 PM at Parklawn Wood Funeral Home, located at 2551 N. Armistead Ave, Hampton VA 23666

If you are unable to attend the service in person, please feel free to join us live at https://www.facebook.com/ParklawnWood/