Rita Antoinette Palmer

Rita Antoinette Palmer, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and dear friend, fell asleep in death after a life devoted to faith, family, and service. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, she immigrated to the United States in 1967, beginning a journey that would be marked by hard work, hospitality, and deep spiritual conviction.

Rita built a proud career with the New York Telephone Company, where she worked as a data entry specialist and later retired. In 1980, she married Franklyn Palmer, and together they made a warm home first in New York and later in Texas after relocating. Their home was always open—filled with music, laughter, good food, and love. She had a special gift for making everyone feel like family.

Rita is survived by her loving husband, Franklin Palmer, her three cherished daughters: Janice Brown, Claudia Johnson and Tiffany Palmer, five adored grandchildren—Taylor Collins, Anthony Johnson, Jamila Johnson, Kayla Hicks, and Kamau Johnson, and her one and only great grand daughter Diamond Johnson.

In the 1970s, Rita dedicated her life to Jehovah, becoming one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. She was a devoted sister, known for her kindness, encouragement, and ready smile. She treasured her time pioneering and finding joy in sharing her hope and comforting others with Bible truths.

Rita leaves behind her siblings, Fay Deleveaux, and Collette Woodfox, Kenroy Duncan and Maurice Duncan, two sister-in-law‘s Verita and Beverly Duncan, brother-in-law, Alfred, Deleveaux, and one son-in-law, Daron Brown, and a host of nephews, and friends. Rita is proceeded in death by her parents, Ivanhoe and Francies Duncan and her oldest brother Aston Anderson.

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in the hope she held so dearly and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind. Her kindness, faith, and love will continue to guide and comfort us until we see her again.