Karen Ruth Palmer

Columbia – Karen Ruth Palmer passed away unexpectedly at her home Tuesday, October 20, 2015 from complications of COPD and Multiple Sclerosis.  She was predeceased by her father William Palmer.

Karen was born in Japan to a military family. She was raised in Bernardsville, NJ
where she attended Bernards High School.  Karen also completed coursework at Concordia College in Bronxville, NY and worked with Stephen Gould in New Jersey. Eventually, Karen found employment as a tax representative for a financial services company in Dallas, Texas where she lived for many years.

Karen very recently relocated to Columbia to be closer to family while she bravely battled MS and COPD.  She will be remembered for her independent spirit and her special humor.

Survivors include her loving mother and step-father, Ruth and Tom Charlton of Southern Shores; two sisters, Kathy Reeves and Amy Bellapianta, four brothers, Bruce Palmer, Karl Palmer. Douglas Palmer, and Dale Stover; six nieces and nephews, many dear friends, and her beloved companions “Scrappy” and “Louie.”

The family will hold a celebration of Karen’s life Saturday October 24, 2015 at 10 am at All Saints Episcopal Church in Southern Shores.  Father Tom Wilson will officiate.

In lieu of flowers the family gratefully requests that memorial donations in Karen’s name be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) National Headquarters at 706 Haddonfield Road Cherry Hill, NJ  08002.

Condolences to the family may be expressed via the online registry at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with  arrangements.