Pravat was born on February 1, 1928, in Bangkok, Thailand, to Manfung and Prayong Neovakul. After completing her degree at Chulalongkorn University, she went to work at the U.S. embassy in Bangkok, where she met and married Colonel Raymond D. Palmer, who served as U.S. Army Attache in Thailand during the 1950s. They later moved to Arlington, VA, where their daughter, Patricia Ann, was born.
Pravat went on to achieve a distinguished career spanning more than 20 years at the Central Intelligence Agency. She taught Thai to prepare scores of students for their missions. Pravat was recognized and remembered fondly by her colleagues and students as a dedicated and engaging teacher.
Over the 60s and 70s, Pravat opened her home to a steady flow of sisters, nephews, nieces, and cousins, who moved in for long stays while they pursued their education or work in America.
After her retirement, Pravat enjoyed a new chapter in life as grandmother (“Khun Yai” in Thai) to Raymond and Miles. She loved spending time with them from the time they were born through adulthood. Pravat was an excellent cook and loved to make all types of dishes for her family. She also tended to her emerald-green lawn, roses, and other flowers with great care.
Pravat always enjoyed visits with her family from Thailand. She was very close to her sisters: Pratin, Prachuab, and Pratoom, and her brother, Kasem.
In addition to her daughter, Patricia Palmer Dulman, son-in-law, Scott Dulman, and grandsons, Raymond and Miles Dulman, Pravat is survived by her dear sister, Pratin, many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Pravat was dearly loved and will be cherished always.
