David R. Palmer

David R. Palmer, born August 19, 1944, in Birmingham, Alabama, passed away peacefully at his home in Birmingham on June 25, 2026. He was 81 years old.

David’s life was shaped from the start by the close-knit bonds of his family in Birmingham, where he was raised by his parents, Ralph Palmer and Lydia Whitehead Palmer. Throughout his life, the values of kindness, resilience, and devotion that he learned in his early years would remain with him, guiding his every step and inspiring those around him.

David graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Business from the University of Montevallo where he was a member of ATO Fraternity and served as the President of the Alumni Association.

David found great fulfillment in his family. He shared a loving marriage with his beloved wife, Judy Beatrice Palmer, whose memory continued to shine brightly in his heart after her passing. Together, David and Judy nurtured a family filled with love, laughter, and enduring strength. He was proud of his accomplishments in life. 

David worked at Rickwood Field during Southern League games to earn enough to purchase his first car, a 1950 Ford. His sense of responsibility never waivered during his 30 year career with IBM where was afforded the opportunity to make many friends and travel to places he never imaged he would travel to. David set the worldwide sales record for 6 years consecutively and was always known as an honest man. He also served his country in the National Guard for several years. His love of golf brought him to enjoy attending The Masters Tournament for many years with family and friends.

David’s legacy lives on in his son, Jason Palmer, whose presence gave him deep pride and joy, and in his sister, Janice Ann Palmer, who remained a steadfast companion and friend through the seasons of his life. David cherished the bonds with his grandchildren, Challen Elise Palmer and Joshua David Palmer. He delighted in witnessing their growth, sharing stories, wisdom, and affection with each generation. David also carried within him the cherished memory of his late son, Jeffrey David Palmer, whom he loved dearly.

David’s life was further enriched by the support and companionship of both close and extended family. He treasured the special moments with those he held dear, honoring the memories of loved ones who preceded him in death—his father Ralph, his mother Lydia, his wife Judy, and his son Jeffrey.

David lived his years in Birmingham with deep roots in the community that first nurtured him. Each season of his life left an imprint on those fortunate to know him—through his kindness, unwavering integrity, and dedicated presence.

A graveside service honoring the life and memory of David R. Palmer will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at Forest Grove Memorial Gardens, 1498 5th Avenue, Pleasant Grove, AL 35127with Rev. Gary Craft officiating. Friends and family are invited to gather as David is laid to rest, to celebrate a life marked by deep love, fidelity, and resilience. There will be no visitation held prior to the service. 

David will be dearly missed and fondly remembered. His legacy endures in the hearts of those he loved and all who were privileged to share in his journey. 

Patterson-Forest Grove Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Palmer family during their time of bereavement. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.pattersonfuneralhomes.com

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