Evelyn Louise Palmer, 90, of Ottumwa, died at 1:36 a.m. September 11, 2024 at her home.
She was born November 3, 1933 in Ottumwa to Athyl and Goldie Orman Rhodes. She married Dean Leroy Palmer April 10, 1953 and he preceded her in death March 21, 2018.
A 1952 graduate of Ottumwa High School, Evelyn owned and operated the Maid-Rite on N. Market St. alongside her husband, from April 1971 to April 2002.
Surviving are her sons, Terry Palmer of Bloomfield, Mike Palmer of Indianola, and Danny Palmer of Ottumwa; 6 grandchildren; 12 greatgrandchildren; 3 great great-grandchildren; and daughter-in-law, Martha Palmer of Boscobel, WI; a sister-in-law, Wilma Rhodes.
She was preceded in death by a son, Alan Palmer; two brothers, Ronnie Rhodes and Bill Rhodes; and sister, Virginia VanCleave.
Graveside services and burial will be 1 p.m. Friday, September 13th at Memorial Lawn Cemetery with Pastor Jeremy Skinner officiating. A further time to celebrate her life will be planned at a later date.
Memorials may be made to Hospice Serving Davis and Wapello Counties.
Reece Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
