Virginia I Palmer

She was born January 4, 1930, in Westerly, Rhode Island, the daughter of Herbert and Irene (Yost) Clay. She was a 1948 graduate of New Bedford (Massachusetts) Vocational High School. On February 4, 1950 she married the one and only love of her life, Leonard R. Palmer.

Ginny, as she preferred to be called, was proud of her Swamp Yankee roots. She will be remembered for her contributions to the community while living in Mystic CT, and her lifelong works of sewing and needlework. She was a founding member of the Quiambaug Volunteer Fire Company's Ladies Auxiliary (Stonington, CT) and was active in many of the activities done to support the fire company. Her photography won numerous awards in exhibitions at the Mystic Art Association. A certified Duncan ceramics instructor, she ran a ceramics studio from her home during the 1980's. Ginny picked up her first sewing needle at age three, and didn't put it down until illness kept her from stitching. Knitting, crochet, needlepoint, and counted cross stitch are only a few of the styles of needlework she did. Sewing was a big part of her life. She sewed her own wedding dress. Over her life, she sewed countless clothes for the family and herself, curtains, quilts, and comforters as well too many other items to list. Until the very end, Ginny always kept her sense of humor and sharp, at times biting and dry wit. Those not aware of her sense of humor would be caught off-guards by her reply to “How do you feel?” with “With my fingers.”

She is survived by her husband Leonard, her son Todd, extended family members and dear friends.

A memorial service will be scheduled in the Spring. In lieu of flowers,the family asks that donations be made to the charity of your choice in remembrance of Ginny, please.