Joseph (Joe) A. Palmer, age 87, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026 following a brief battle with cancer.
Born on December 14, 1938, in Lowell, Massachusetts, Joe was the son of the late Joseph A. Palmer Sr. and Marion Irene (Collins) Palmer. A proud veteran, he served four years in the United States Navy, an experience that shaped his lifelong sense of discipline, service, and dedication. After his military service, Joe built a career rooted in hard work and integrity. He eventually opened Palmer’s Automotive Service, a business he owned and operated continuously for 50 plus years. Joe also successfully operated Penske Truck Rental for more than 40 years. Known for his skill, honesty, and strong work ethic, Joe earned the trust and respect of countless customers and friends throughout the community. Joe was most proud of his family. He shared over 56 devoted years of marriage with his beloved wife, Beverly (Smith) Palmer, and was a loving father to William Palmer and his partner Alice Anderson, Robert Palmer and his wife Jody, and Kylee Simao and her husband Nario. He was also a proud grandfather to Savannah Lemay, Niko Simao, Anthony Simao, Haley Palmer, Abby Palmer, and Cristian Simao, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Joe is survived by his sister Joan Mills and her husband Lenny and his brother-in-law Dr. Robert Smith and his wife Kathleen. He is also fondly remembered by numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his family, Joe is remembered by Rene Belanger and his wife Diane, lifelong friends and a constant presence in his life. Joe was predeceased by his parents and by his sisters Shirley Wyman and Geraldine Podgorni and his brother James Palmer and sister-in-law Sylvia Smith.

 Joseph Palmer will be remembered as a steady presence, a devoted husband and father, a proud veteran, and a man whose life was defined by commitment—to his work, his family, and the people he served. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the family he loved so deeply.

 A memorial Mass honoring him will be shared with family and friends to be held at St. John the Evangelist Church at 115 Middlesex Street in No Chelmsford, MA on Tuesday, February 17th at 11:00AM. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to High Pointe House 360 North Avenue Haverhill, MA 01830