Eugenia "Jean" Palmer

Age 88, of Morris, Illinois, and formerly of Friendswood, Texas, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 29, 2024, at Serenity Estates in Morris, Illinois.

Born on January 12, 1936, in Edinburg, Texas, Eugenia Ruth was a daughter of Raymond F. and Alberta Maxine (Thomas) Paull. She grew up in Edinburg, where she received her education before later moving to Morris, Illinois. Jean worked in the Radiology Department at Morris Hospital, and during her time in Illinois, she embraced her community, becoming active in the Junior Women’s Club and the local Welcome Wagon, always extending her warmth and kindness to others.

On July 1, 1989, Jean married her best friend and soulmate, Keith Palmer, in Friendswood, Texas. Together, they built a successful career in real estate, earning prestigious accolades such as the Golden Rule Award and the Key Man Award. Jean was a dedicated member of the Women’s Council of Realtors and passionately contributed to fundraising campaigns for breast cancer awareness, supporting organizations like the Rose Imaging Center and a women’s shelter.

Jean and Keith shared a love for travel, exploring destinations across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, creating countless memories together. Jean’s creative spirit shone through in her hobbies, including crafting, needlework, and hand-painting shirts that she proudly sold at local craft fairs. A lover of games and camaraderie, she enjoyed playing cards and was an enthusiastic member of a Bridge Club.

Above all, Jean will be remembered as a devoted mother and grandmother who cherished every moment spent with her family. Her warmth, creativity, and generous heart touched everyone she met, leaving a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories.

Jean’s family and friends will hold dear the memories of her strength, compassion, and unwavering love. She will be deeply missed but forever celebrated by those fortunate enough to have known her.

Survivors include her children: Beth (Rich) Ferrara and Mike (Mary Kay) Theis, both of Morris and Tom Theis of Alvin, Texas; his grandchildren Rik Ferrara (Amanda Bajaw), Brett (Rosemary) Ferrara, Jacob Theis (Mandee Halm), Erin (Justin) Knapp, and Ryne Theis; great grandchildren: Dominic, Giovanni, Aidan, Ethan, Fono, Tori, Mella, Vaughn, Theis, Elise and Brody; siblings: Ray “Sonny” Paull, Carey (Rebecca) Paull, Mary Jane Allen and Tommie Carol Brandt and several nieces and nephews.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, and husband Keith on September 11, 2017.

Private family services are being held, and Jean will be laid to rest in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood with her late husband, Keith.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Jean's memory to Lightways Hospice, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL 60431.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Jean's memorial page online through social media.

Services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Morris. (815-942-2500)