George Palmer, Jr.

January 10, 2017

George Palmer, Jr. passed away Friday, January 6, 2017, due to recent health complications. George, also known by his many friends and family as Dinky or Hotwheels, was 63. He was born in Century, FL on October 10, 1953, to Ola and George Palmer, Sr. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jimmie Freeman; sisters, Nora Johnson and Eula Mae Dearborn; and nephew, Shane Williams.

He is survived by sisters, Nancy Neal, Elizabeth Williams, and Mammie Jo Smith, and by many cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family. George grew up in the Tri-City area and was a resident of Jay, FL for the last several years.

As an infant, he contracted polio during a nationwide epidemic before the lifesaving vaccine was developed. Though the disease left him disabled and with limited use of his legs, he refused to be defined by his limitations and defied all expectations of what he would be able to accomplish. George walked, rode a bicycle, and drove a car when it was said he would never crawl. He attended and graduated from Century public schools, studied architecture in college, coached little league baseball, worked productively, and lived a full and independent life when it was said he would live his life in an institution. Ever the optimist, there simply was no quit in him. His spirit was infectious and he inspired all who knew him. George will be remembered by all who knew and loved him for his sharp wit, high integrity, intense loyalty, his handsome looks and roughish smile.

Later in life, George developed post-polio syndrome – a common effect of the disease which leads to a slow degeneration of muscle tissue and other health complications. This eventually forced him into a wheelchair and limited his mobility. But, even in these circumstances, he resolved to live as full a life as possible and dealt with his situation with good humor and unshakable faith. He was a friend to many, an inspiration to all and will leave an unfillable space in each of our hearts.

Pallbearers will be Art Dales, Timothy Dales, Mike Duncan, Dale Havard, Jeff Gunn, Randy Helton, Seth Holland and Brandon Crutzhfield.

Honorary pallbearer is Jayden Dales.

The viewing will be Wednesday, January 11, 2017, from 6 p.m until 8 p.m. at Jay Funeral Home.

The memorial service and celebration of his life will be on Thursday, January, 12, 2017, at 3 p.m. at Jay funeral home with Bro Mike Hutto officiating.

All are invited to attend to pay their respects and to share their remembrances.

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Written by Jane · Filed Under Obituaries