Mr. Larry Skip Palmer

On November 12, 2025, the world said goodbye to a truly remarkable man. Larry "Skip" Palmer passed away peacefully at the age of 83, surrounded by the unwavering love of his family.
Skip is survived by his cherished wife, best friend, and favorite travel and golf partner, Janis Irby Palmer. He leaves behind his children, Rob O'Harrow (Joann), Scott O'Harrow (Laurie), and Juli Hall (Rhett), who will forever carry his spirit forward.
He was a devoted grandfather to Connell O'Harrow, Justine and Stephanie Retiro, Alissa McCollum (Mike), Andrew and Alexa Magness, Quin O'Harrow, and Logan, Cade (Abby), Eli, and Rhys Hall. Skip is also survived by his sisters, Toni Fauquher (Terry) and Judy Palmer Stallings; his sister-in-law, Bonnie Palmer; and eighteen nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in his heart.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Willis Palmer and Gertrude Miranda Palmer Bavar; his stepfather, Max Bavar; his sister, Linda Kinnaird; his in-laws, Vera Belle Brookshire Palmer and Irby Herman Palmer; his sister-in-law, Carole Palmer Rich, and grandson Aaron Magness.
Skip was born on September 21, 1942, in Jackson, Michigan, the 3rd of four children. He spent his early childhood in Decorah, Iowa before the family relocated to Winter Park, Florida, where he attended middle and high school.
In high school, Skip found community and purpose at the Winter Park Community Center. He worked as a caddie at the local golf course-where his lifelong love of golf took root-and performed as the lead singer of a local high school band thanks to his rich, memorable voice. He went on to attend Florida State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management.
Upon graduating, Skip was recruited by the Burger King Corporation, launching a decade-long career on the corporate side before transitioning into franchise ownership. He later co-founded Saratoga Restaurant Systems (SRS) with his partner, Bill Bradford, and went on to serve as a Burger King Franchisee for 35 years.
In 1983, while continuing his Burger King operations, Skip also became a founding partner of "Armadillo Willy's," a well-known BBQ restaurant in Northern California.
Skip met Janis in 1972, and after spending two years in London, they returned to the United States and married in 1975. They made their home in Northern California for 35 years before moving to Janis' hometown of Dallas, Georgia, in 2010. In Dallas, Skip became a valued part of the Publix community, where he worked for ten years. He and Janis celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on August 24, 2025.
As accomplished as Skip was professionally, nothing compared to the love he had for his family. Supporting his children and grandchildren in their pursuits brought him tremendous joy. A passionate golfer for over 65 years, Skip was a familiar face at Mirror Lake Golf Club and The Frog Golf Club in Villa Rica. Some of his happiest moments were spent on the course with Janis by his side, often joined by his grandson Quin.
When he wasn't golfing or greeting customers at Publix, Skip could be found watching or listening to nearly any sporting event. With his deep knowledge of NFL, MLB, and NBA statistics, he was the one the family relied on for sports answers that no one else could remember.
Whether he was known as Skip, Skipper, Grandpa, or Papa Skip, he greeted everyone with a warm smile, a listening ear, a big hug, or a deep, belly laugh. His presence was a gift, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 17th at 11:00 a.m. at Star of Bethlehem Church in Douglasville, Georgia, followed by a potluck reception. To honor Skip, guests are invited to dress golf casual.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to PGA HOPE, whose mission is to enrich and transform the lives of Veterans and Active Duty Military service members through the healing power of golf-an organization that reflects Skip's deep love for the game and his appreciation for service members.
Benson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Larry Skip Palmer. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mr. Larry, please visit our floral store.