Robert Ronald Palmer passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026. The day was warm and sunny, and the light of the sun shone upon him as he departed. He was surrounded by his family and beloved nurses who took incredible care of him at The Enclave Assisted Living Home in Clayton, North Carolina.

Bob (as he was known to most) was born in Romford, England to the parents of Ronald and Eileen Palmer. He had three sisters, Margaret, Jan, and Julie Palmer. During Bob’s youth, he held a diverse range of war-time jobs – lollipop factory assembly line, roving beef delivery, Woolworth’s stock boy. Through each of these, Bob’s mischievous behavior led to hysterical stories for each position which we’ve retold countless times.

As Bob got older, he traveled Europe on a motorcycle, skied the Swiss Alps, and found himself in places and adventures that most can only dream about. He began exploring the medical profession and worked in a mental health institution where he’d take care of patients with stories we’d come to repeat over the years.

This job sparked his interest to become a CRNA, and in typical Bob fashion he achieved the highest score possible on the entrance exam, which qualified him to accept a residency in the United States.

Bob boldly left England, literally with $35 dollars in his pocket, and moved to New York City. From there, he completed his program, moved to Albany NY, and on the side became a ski-patrolman and received his pilot’s license.

During a ski party in Utica, NY, he met the love of his life, Gloria Elley Palmer, and married her soon after. They had their only son, Jeffrey, and were married for 45 years prior to her passing in 2016.

The family moved to Fayetteville, NC in 1977, where Bob held his CRNA position at the VA Hospital for 30 years. They established themselves at St. Michael Archangel Church. Through this, Bob and his family embraced an extended family that formed beloved life-long relationships.

One of Bob’s greatest achievements was learning the bagpipes and becoming the founding member of Cross Creek Pipes and Drums, Fayetteville’s first bagpipe band. He worked hard to formally adopt the Tartan of the Carolinas, which the band still wears today.

Bob adored his own family, especially his two grandsons, Joseph Palmer and Ryan Palmer. As a grandfather, Bob became “Poppy,” the distinguished, loving man who would always live as a shining example to them. There are no words that can describe Poppy’s love and pride for Joseph and Ryan.

Bob is survived by his son, Jeffrey Palmer, his daughter-in-law, Kerri Palmer, his two grandsons Joseph and Ryan Palmer. Bob remarried and is survived by his loving wife, Yvonne Majlaton.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Bob’s name to St. Jude Hospital or St. Michael Archangel Catholic Church in Fayetteville, NC.

Online condolences may be left at www.jerniganwarren.com

Arrangements by Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, NC 28301