Robert R. “Bob” Palmer, 81, went to be with the Lord on July 16, 2025. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Mary Hoover Palmer; two daughters and two sons gained by their marriage: Mary Hall (Mike) of Winterville, North Carolina, and Barbara Jordan (Kyle) of Aurora, Illinois; a sister, Lynn Ripley (Bob) of Gloucester, Virginia; and five grandchildren: Matthew Hall (Danielle) of Lexington, South Carolina; Megan Hall of Greenville, North Carolina; Kate Jordan of Rockville, Maryland; Sara Jordan of London, England; Jack Jordan of Aurora, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Florine Palmer and a brother, Charles Palmer Jr.
He considered his family his most precious achievement. In addition to being a wonderful and caring husband, dad, and “Pop-Pop,” Bob was always inspired to give back to the community. Since 1965, he actively served the congregation and the Lord in a variety of roles at Richmond’s First Baptist Church. He loved this extended family and devoted much of his time and talents to various church ministries.
Spending time with family and friends on the water brought him great joy and special memories for so many. He was active in the educational and leadership programs of the America’s Boating Club | United States Power Squadrons at the District 5 (DEO 2006-2008) and national levels (ANEO 2011-2013) and served as the Commander (1994) and Education Officer (1996-1998) of the Richmond Sail & Power Squadron.
Bob graduated from Hampton High School and Virginia Military Institute. He served in the US Army and was stationed in Germany. He later received his advanced degree from VPI & SU (Virginia Tech) in Engineering and obtained his Professional Engineer License. He retired from a rewarding career at Dupont after 40-plus years of service.
