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Karen Palmer Obituary
Elmira - Age 56, passed away peacefully at home, Saturday, October 31, 2020, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her daughters Anna and Olivia and her best friend Karen Dibble Whitman. Karen was predeceased by her mother Maureen (Collins) Palmer. She is survived by her father Jay E. Palmer; daughters, Anna L. Hoyt and Olivia R. Hoyt; brothers, Craig [Jennifer] and Scott [Theresa] Palmer. She also leaves behind a large extended family and many close friends. Karen grew up in Elmira Heights and was a 1982 graduate of Thomas A. Edison High School. She earned her Bachelor's Degree from St. John Fisher College and her Master's Degree in Education from Elmira College. Karen taught in various schools over the past 30 years, and most recently she was a history teacher at Corning Painted Post High School. She immensely enjoyed traveling, kayaking and hiking. Her love for adventure has been passed down not only to her daughters, but to many of her students as well. If she wasn't out on an adventure, she was probably at home relaxing with a good book and snuggled up with her pets that always held a special place in her heart. Anyone who knew Karen, knows how much she loved life. She faced everything with joy, positivity, humor and a sense of adventure. That is how she will always be remembered. As per Karen's request there will be no services at this time due to COVID-19. Those wishing may remember Karen by making a donation to Animal Care Sanctuary, 353 Sanctuary Hill Lane, East Smithfield PA 18817. Arrangements by McInerny Funeral Home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Karen Palmer
Sponsored by The Star-Gazette.
Leah Fedele and Mike McNall
December 14, 2020
We are both deeply saddened to hear of Karen's death. She taught with us at Eagle Hill Middle School in Manlius, NY, during the 1989-1990 school year. Karen taught Language Arts on our 3-person team that year. Our 1st period team planning was a lot of fun because of her. She brought so much enthusiasm, energy, and creativity to our meetings. Her quick wit and sense of humor were a welcome relief in a profession that can sometimes be a little stodgy. She'd frequently leave our meetings saying, "Well, I have to go clean my hovel". Of course, her room never was. She was the only person we know who covered her bulletin boards in Hallmark wrapping paper.
We can't imagine how terribly she will be missed by daughters, family, and close friends. Please accept our condolences.
Paul M. Bjorck
November 12, 2020
Wonderful person ! So sorry for your loss...
TIM & LUANN PELOT
November 11, 2020
Karen is the most wonderful, caring person I ever had the honor of meeting. Heaven sure gained an angel Our prayers to you all
Krystian Rumiano
November 10, 2020
I was a student of Ms. Palmer. She was my favorite teacher and I had her from my sophomore to senior year. She was always smiling and always bringing a smile to the rest of our faces❤ Too young to go❤ You and your family will for ever be in my heart ❤
Dick Hewitt
November 10, 2020
Jay and Family, So sorry to hear of your loss, will keep you all in my prayers, God bless.
Joella E Riker
November 8, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. You always had a smile and always willing to help anyone in need. Love you Karen, will be greatly missed. Joella
Daren
November 8, 2020
My heart hurts for you all. Believe she is holding the hand of God on her way to heaven
Lori DiMartino
November 8, 2020
Karen was a sweet person. She could make anyone laugh. An extraordinary life well remembered.
Bonnie Hart
November 8, 2020
So very sorry... we enjoyed chatting at our children’s school events over the years. I enjoyed her stories of travel and adventure. To her family and friends ... may your joyful memories of her help you through this difficult time. Very Sincerely... Dana Paul, Jodie Paul, and
Barbara Gilboy
November 8, 2020
I’m am sad to here about Karen’s death. May the entire Palmer family and friends be blessed with her memories. I pray that God gives you the strength to bear the pain of losing her. My thoughts are with you.
Ardith K Kurchey
November 8, 2020
So so very sad....my heart goes out to her family. She was such an awesome dedicated teacher who loved her students, and even a more awesome person inside and out.
Dick DeGolyer
November 8, 2020
Karen was a beautiful person inside and out....She will be missed by many...our condolences to Jay....Craig and Scott and the Palmer family...
Hazel McConnell Burlew
November 8, 2020
My sincere condolences Jay and Maureen Palmer and all the family from a former T A E graduate. I am so very sorry for your loss.
Steve Butts
November 8, 2020
My deepest condolences go out to the Palmer family. It saddened me greatly to hear of Karen's passing and it is my hope that God wraps his arms around each and every one of you during this very difficult time.
Kim McGarvey
November 8, 2020
Karen was a bright light in my life and the lives of so many others. She was an extraordinary friend, mother, and teacher. I always marveled at her independent, adventurous, and positive spirit. She could always make me laugh. Everything was fun, if she was there. I feel so fortunate and grateful that she was a part of my life. Some of my best memories are with her. My sincerest condolences to Anna, Olivia and the rest of her family and friends. May her loving spirit be with you always, and your wonderful memories bring you comfort. I will always miss her and never forget her.
Lorraine Davis
November 7, 2020
Jay, Scott, Craig and Karen's daughters
We are so very sorry for your loss, it's been a long time since we have seen you all, but our thoughts are with you all. May she rest in peace, Lorraine and Ed Davis
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