James "Chief" Robert Palmer

Jim Palmer “Chief” as he was called, grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee and graduated from Farragut High School in 1957. Jim joined the Air National Guard and was assigned to the firefighter division. This Air Force experience led him to become a Knoxville firefighter for 38 years, becoming Chief in the 1980’s.

Jim and his wife of 64 years, Sandra Pinkston, later moved to his dream farm in Jefferson County. Being on that tractor and taking care of his cattle was his favorite job. His son, Scott, and his family lived on the farm also, including grandchildren, Forest, Lakelin and Ridge. The chief spent many years attending ball games, dance recitals, camping, and going to Mule days. He even built them a ‘bean house’ in his garden. Papaw's grandkids were his pride and joy and the annual trip to Pawley’s Island was a trip the kids would never miss or forget.

Jim Palmer was a great man of faith. He believed in giving to others, he was a member of Pleasant Grove Piney Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon and Music Minister for years. Jim was on the board of trustees at the King's Academy in Seymour.

Singing was Jim's greatest gift. He sang with a heartfelt joy, praising his savior and telling of God's love and goodness. He sang because he was happy and free. The Quartet Convention was a favorite trip.

Jim leaves behind many friends as he never met a stranger. He loved people and was a prankster at Heart. The Chief leaves behind his wife, Sandra, his son, Scott (Sheila), grandchildren Forest Palmer of South Carolina, Lakelin and Taylor Long and Ridge and Ellie Palmer of Jefferson County; sister, Ruth Ann Winkle and brothers, Bill and Dennis Palmer. He is preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Mary Sue Palmer; sisters, Louise Bell and Bobby Shields and precious daughter, Jeanna Palmer.

Receiving of friends will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 5pm with a funeral service to follow at 7pm at Berry Highland Memorial Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held on Monday, March 31, 2025 at 1pm inside Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery.