Barbara Palmer, 94, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026, at Regency Assisted Living in Pullman. Born on October 25, 1931, Barbara lived a full and meaningful life marked by kindness and dedication to her loved ones.

Barbara grew up in South Dakota and met and married Bruce Palmer in Yankton, South Dakota. They lived in Texas while Bruce was in the Air Force, which was where their daughter Shirley was born. They moved to Eugene, Oregon where Barbara completed her college degree, Bruce completed his PhD and where their son John was born. After a stint in Denver, the family moved to Pullman, where Barbara and Bruce lived for the rest of their lives.

Barbara was a schoolteacher in the Pullman School District teaching first grade for many years. Barbara touched hundreds of young people - her students, family, friends, and caregivers - with her kind and thoughtful approach to life and learning. Later in her career, Barbara worked in administration and helped developed the curriculum for the District. Barbara was also a licensed massage therapist on the side.

Barbara and Bruce met singing in the choir at Yankton College and went on to passionately love the opera and symphony. Barb enjoyed spending time at the family cabin in Yachats, Oregon, which served as a respite from the school year. Hawaii was a special place for Barb, starting with the adventurous summer in Hilo in 1963 when Bruce worked for the Peace Corps. They had many special trips to Hawaii with friends and family over their 60+ years and added Europe to their travels. Wherever they were, Barb and Bruce cherished a nice dinner party with friends over wine and conversation.

Throughout her life, Barbara was a beacon of resilience, generously giving her time and wisdom to those around her. She will be remembered fondly for her unwavering spirit and the inspirational life she led. She cared deeply about equality and the well-being of others. In her later years when John took over the banking, he discovered Barb belonged to over 200 non-profit organizations. All causes touched her heart, and she had the junk mail to show it:)

Barbara loved her family. The holidays were fun gathering times for the family and Barb made sure everyone felt special. However, the passing of daughter Shirley at a young age (45) was hard, as it would be for any parent. Barb spent special time with Shirley's children, Jeff and Jenna, growing up and formed a loving close relationship with them. The passing of Bruce 10 years ago was also hard, but she found peace and purpose through the lives of her son John, her grandchildren (Jeff Starr, Jenna Torrey-Starr, Hannah Palmer), and her great grandchildren (Everett Starr, Owen Torrey, Wesley Torrey). Hannah lived with Barb for 1+ years while attending WSU and they created a wonderful bond along with Barb becoming actively involved with Hannah's student TV club. Barbara was deeply loved by her family, and her legacy of love and strength will carry forth undiminished.

Even in her passing, she leaves a timeless blueprint of courage and integrity for future generations to follow. Her memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew her. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family and all who mourn her passing.