Irene Ann Palmer

Irene Ann Palmer, 93, of Petersburg, Virginia, passed away on May 15, 2016, in Cape Coral, Florida. She was born on July 18, 1922, to Lily Stell and Thomas B. Belcher. Irene was preceded in death by her husband, A.W. Palmer, affectionately known as Toad, as well as by her brother, Thomas Belcher, and her sister, Gladys “Tootsie” Merten. Irene was steadfast in her work ethic, always going above and beyond. Her career at Long Manufacturing, the local lock and key factory, extended well into her seventies. After her retirement, Irene took care of several children. One of these children, Heather Seal, who is no longer with us, was especially near and dear to her heart. Irene is survived by her daughter, Mary Story, her sister, Myrtle Orcutt, and by three generations of grandchildren. Grandchildren surviving her are: Rhonda Barnard, Renee Jones, Alfred “Bubba” Cook, and Louise Balling. Great-grandchildren surviving her are: Nikki, Brandi, Dusty, Blake, Brett, Sloane, Kody, Derek, Brandon, Jacob, Samantha, and Sierra. Great-great-grandchildren surviving her are: George, Helen, Damion, Bailey, and Link. Irene was loved by many—too many to list here—but she was supported unconditionally, for many years, by her neighbor, Chris Bynum, who was always there to lend her a helping hand. Irene, above all else, was our Granny, and she will forever be in our hearts. Granny, we love you. A graveside service, followed by burial, will be held at Southlawn Memorial Park on Saturday, June 11, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. The family is being served by J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. Condolences may be registered online at www.jtmorriss.com .