Businessman, Fiddle Player And Car Collector, Jimmy Palmer Dies

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Businessman, Fiddle Player And Car Collector, Jimmy Palmer Dies

SPRINGFIELD TENNESSEE: (Smokey Barn News) – Smokey Barn News is sad to announce the news that long time Robertson County resident, businessman and amazing fiddle player, James “Jimmy” Palmer, has died, he was 76.

Smokey Barn News has encountered Jimmy Palmer on many occasions, his love of cars and music had him in front of Smokey’s cameras many times. He was always easy to spot in local parades with his beautiful car collection and his amazing fiddle playing even got him a spot on the old Smokey Barn Show, if anyone remembers those days.

Holman Insurance buildingJimmy was also a long time successful businessman and on March 1st 2015 Jimmy would have celebrated 45 years with Holman & Holman Agency Inc in Springfield.

Jimmy was also a long time member of the Tennessee-Kentucky Threshermen’s Association and a big part of the Bell Witch Opry in Adams Tn.

Jimmy has had his share of health issues over the years but it seemed he was doing well lately. We encountered him just a few weeks ago and chatted with him about his health. He said he has been feeling pretty good and chuckled and smiled like only he can do.

JimmyAccording to several sources, Jimmy went to church, came home, sat in his chair and a short time latter he passed. As we understand it Jimmy passed away a little after noon Sunday.

The community reacted quickly to Jimmy’s passing, making it clear that Jimmy was loved and respected by many.

The Robertson County community is immeasurably poorer for the loss of Mr. Jimmy Palmer. I have had the privilege of knowing Jimmy my entire life. Jimmy meant so much to this community through his music,  his antique cars, Holman & Holman Insurance and just the magnanimous person that he was.  He will certainly be missed and we send our condolences and best wishes to his family.” Howard Bradley, Robertson County Mayor.

I have known Jimmy Palmer many years and I have had the pleasure of being in bluegrass music jams with Jimmy at Authentic Coffee shop. Friday evening was especially enjoyable! Jimmy kicked off a fiddle tune like he was on fire. Playing with all he had in him. Jimmy always had good things to say about me. He was a fine Christian and a Gentleman! I will certainly miss him and am praying for his family!”  Kevin Phelan

Jimmy’s obituary & Service Information:

James “Jimmy” A. Palmer, age 76 of Springfield, passed away on December 6, 2015 at his home. Mr. Palmer was born on December 30, 1938 to the late Jack and Ada Palmer.

JimmyA lifelong resident of Springfield, he was a member of Springfield Baptist Church for over 45 years and served as an usher, worked for Holman & Holman Insurance for 45 years and served as president from 1975-2011, was a member of Tennessee / Kentucky Threshermen’s Association, the Tobacco Belt Region Car Club, the Bell Witch Opry, NSRA, Good Guys and a member of the Bountymen and Reunion of Professional Entertainers.

Mr. Palmer loved music and was an avid fiddle and bass player, having played with entertainers such as David Frizzell, Jimmy Fortune, Earl White, Charlie Collins, Benny Martin, Martha Carson, and John Hartford throughout his musical career. Jimmy was also the bass player on the Carl and Sophie Tipton Show.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Robbye Palmer; sons, John Marc Palmer and David (Alice) Palmer, and grandson James Elijah Palmer.

A Life Celebration will be held on Thursday, December 10, 2015 at 12:00 P.M. in the Chapel of Springfield Funeral Home, with Dr. James Dean and Martin Babb officiating.

The family will have a private interment following the service. Visitation with the family will be on Wednesday, December 9, 2015 from 4-7pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of Flowers donations can be made to the Springfield Baptist Church, 400 N. Main Street, Springfield, Tennessee 37172.

Arrangements entrusted to Springfield Memorial Gardens, Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 4005 Memorial Blvd, Springfield, Tennessee 37172 MAP 615-384-5437 www.SpringfieldFH.com

The staff at Smokey Barn News sends our prayers and sympathy to Jimmy’s family as they deal with his sudden loss.

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