Claude Melvin “Jiggs” Palmer, 87, of Mt. Vernon died 8:13 p.m. Jan. 3, 2005, at St. Mary’s Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon.

He was retired from Illinois Power, where he had worked as a truck driver.

Mr. Palmer was born Nov. 15, 1917, in Mt. Vernon to Claude M. and Mary (Headlee) Palmer.

He married Melva N. (Masters) Palmer Dec. 21, 1940, in Mt. Vernon; she died Oct. 19, 2001.

Graveside services will be held 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Oakwood Cemetery. The Rev. Melvin Larson will officiate. Those attending this service are asked to go directly to the cemetery on Thursday. No public visitation will be held.

Mr. Palmer is survived by brothers Carl M. Palmer and wife Mary of Centralia and George Eddie Palmer of Mt. Vernon; a sister, Emma Lee Gockel and husband Tony of Mt. Vernon; a brother-in-law, Murel Masters of Mt. Vernon; a nephew, David Palmer and wife Jill of Centralia; and nieces Cheryl Books and husband Larry of Mt. Vernon and Mary Echols of Memphis, Tenn.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.

Mr. Palmer was a member of the AMVETS and American Legion Post 141. He enjoyed bowling and golfing. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served during World War II.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Hughey Funeral Home, where you may call 242-3348 for obituary information at any time.

Source: Register-News
Date: January 6, 2005
Submitted by: Robert W. Loman