George Jeffrey "Rusty" Palmer

1967 - 2025

George "Rusty" Palmer, 58, beloved husband of Lisa Landrum Palmer of Evans, GA, passed away on May 30, 2025 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Even in the face of adversity, Rusty chose to celebrate each day-treasuring simple moments and creating countless cherished memories with the friends and family he loved.

Rusty graduated from Edmund Burke Academy in 1985 and received his Bachelor's Degree in Business from Georgia Southern University followed by an Associate's Degree in Engineering Technology from Augusta Technical College. He began his professional journey at Savannah River Site before building a successful career in commercial insurance. Over the years, he brought his expertise and dedication to several respected firms including GA Farm Bureau, Insurance Services of Augusta, J. Smith Lanier, and Sanford, Bruker & Banks. His professional life was defined by authentic relationships with customers, built on trust and exceptional service, with many customers becoming cherished friends. In the office, Rusty was a practical jokester who loved a good laugh, was the spark of fun, and enjoyed relaying his latest cooking tip or sharing a piece of sage advice.

He spent many hours volunteering with youth, even during his battle with cancer. He served on the Board of Directors for the Greater Augusta Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) since 2012, where he worked to support local high school coaches and athletes in their walk with Christ. He served as a Coach with Columbia County 4-H Shooting Sports and the Augusta Christian Scholastic Shooting Team. In addition, he served on the Board for Sacred Heart Cultural Center- a place that held special significance as the site of his wedding.

Rusty's circle of friends was large and deep- a testament to his genuine and caring nature. He was the friend who reached out with a phone call just to connect and had an uncanny knack for helping friends find unique items often at an unbeatable price. Rusty loved the outdoors and was especially fond of camping and fishing along coastal Georgia, often using these places as opportunities to nurture and reconnect with lifelong friends.

He will be remembered for his unwavering faith, sense of humor, and his constant quest for a great deal. He was a unique blend of qualities- relaxed yet detail-oriented, reflective yet wonderfully outgoing, and naturally humble and kind. Whether he was deep in conversation or joking around, Rusty brought people together with his authenticity and warmth.

Rusty is survived by a son and daughter, Jeffery Grant Palmer and Claire Elise Palmer of Evans; along with two sisters, Tina Palmer Bozeman (William) and Hannah Palmer Shadwick (Clayton). He is preceded in death by the late George and Helen Palmer of Waynesboro, GA.

The family would like to thank Georgia Hospice for their support and compassion during Rusty's final months of care.

Both Visitation and a Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025 at Kiokee Baptist Church in Appling, GA. Visitation will be held from 11:30 -1:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall followed by a Celebration of Life service at 1:30 in the church sanctuary. A private burial will be held at Westover Cemetery in Augusta, GA.

Rusty lived life to the fullest, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Greater Augusta Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) at P.O. Box 204168

Augusta, GA 30917.