William H. Palmer

1940 - 2025

William H. Palmer
12/11/1940 - 08/05/2025
"Bill" or "Billy" Palmer, an accomplished artist and contributor to the NASA Space Program for 45 years, passed away peacefully at home on August 5, 2025. He was 84.
Born in December 1940 to Napoleon and Winnie, Bill grew up in the Heights. In 1958 he graduated Reagan High School. He earned a Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree in art at the University of Houston.
While working with NASA in Huntsville, Alabama, he married Jimmie Carolyn Cox. Continuing work in Houston with NASA, he collaborated with legendary scientist, Dr. Wernher von Braun, on several projects, and many astronauts, designing mission patches flown to space and much more. He also won the coveted Silver Snoopy Award for Outstanding Achievement.
In 1979, the couple realized a dream by adopting son, Neil.
In 2006 Carolyn passed after 42 years of marriage. Bill decided to retire. Two years later, he caught the eye of Joy Gallaway and they married. In their 17 years, they traveled to 21 countries and enjoyed dancing.
A member of Clear Lake Presbyterian Church, Bill served as a deacon and Stephen Minister. Bill is described as kind-hearted, gentle, humble and humorous.
He is survived by his wife Joy; son Neil (Kori); granddaughters Scarlette and Alyssa; sister Nancy Jackowski (Herb); niece Jennifer; nephew Justin; great-niece Madison; and many special cousins.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2 p.m. at Clear Lake Presbyterian Church, 1511 El Dorado Blvd., Houston, TX 77062. Donations may be made to the church.
His legacy lives on through the lives he touched with his art, service, and love. He is missed.