Palmer Walker, Iii

Palmer Ray Walker III departed this life on 16 January 2023. Born on December 8, 1957, to Dorothy Mae and Palmer Ray Walker II in Omaha Nebraska, Palmer would lead an exceptional life. After having re-married Palmer would be raised by his mother and Step-Father T.J. Johnson. T.J. relocated the family to Flint, MI where he and Dorothy were employed by General Motors. Palmer attended Flint Community Schools for most of his primary and secondary education. Palmer was an exceptional student earning honors of distinction throughout his educational experience. Palmer participated in wrestling, cross-country and track and field where he earned varsity awards. Upon graduation from Flint Southwestern High School, he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard serving four years achieving the rank of Petty Officer Second Class. After receiving an honorable discharge from the Coast Guard and working a brief time in the public sector, Palmer extended his military career by enlisting in the United States Army where he honorably served most of his 20-year career in the Airborne Ranger Division. Palmer was highly decorated having received many medals, badges, citations, and combat ribbons. Palmer had numerous overseas assignments including stints in Korea, Germany, Iraq, Kosovo, and Afghanistan. Palmer was truly a military man as he is affectionately called “Rambro” by his family for his never say never attitude. Palmer was a lifelong learner who pursued and obtained his bachelor’s and master’s degrees as a full-time enlisted soldier. Upon retiring from military service Palmer continued to work as a systems analyst for the U.S. Army at Joint Base San Antonio, San Antonio, TX.

While stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington Palmer met Mechthilde Jaeger the two fell in love and have been married for 22 years. The couple have four children (two born of this union) and two from previous unions. Palmer was the consummate family man as he adored his family and worked diligently on their behalf. Palmer enjoyed many hobbies such as, photography, karaoke, cooking (especially grilling or smoking meat), fishing and watching Jeopardy. Palmer will be sadly missed but fondly remembered for his intelligence, his wit, and his caring nature.

Palmer is survived by his loving wife of 22 years, Mechtilde Walker of San Antonio, TX, 2 sons Anthony O. Merchant, New Orleans, LA;  Jessie Myles Walker, San Antonio, TX; 2 daughters Alicia Denise Thomas, San Antonio, TX; Taylor Rae-Marie Walker, San Antonio, TX; 2 brothers, Don Eric Walker I and Richard Damon Johnson, both of Flint, MI; one sister, Cheryl Denise Johnson, Flint, MI. It should be noted that first cousins Kevin Lance Howard, Dana Robin Howard and Deborah Ann Howard are recognized as Palmer’s brothers and sister as they were all raised together. 4 surviving Aunts Sarah Lee Howard, Grand Blanc, MI; Jeannnie Cheatham, Jackson, MS; Betty Johnson, Harvey IL; Carolyn Walker-Kimbro, Fairborn, OH; Uncle and Aunt Joe and Evelyn Johnson Flint, MI. Palmer also leaves to cherish his memory a host of cousins, and friends.

Palmer was proceeded in death by Grandparents Jessie and Leola Foster; Irvin C. and Martha Walker; Carl and Ruth Johnson; Mother and Fathers, Dorothy and T.J. Johnson; Palmer Ray Walker II; Aunts Mary Dallas, Jackson, MS; Annie R. Arps, Omaha, NE, Gladys F. Johnson, Flint, MI; Uncles Elliot L. Walker, Jackson, MS; Irvin C. Walker Jr. (survived by wife Darlene), Memphis, TN; Clarence Parrot, Gary, IN. Best friends, Johnnie E. Montgomery, Glenn L. Williams and William Darryl Holt.

Military Honors will be held on February 9, 2023 at 2:45p.m at Shelter #5.