Evelyn M. Palmer, long-time Walton resident, passed away at Countryside Care Center in Delhi on November 20, 2007 after a brave battle with cancer.

Evelyn was born on November 5, 1928 in Noxen, Pennsylvania. Her father, Rev. William F. Miller, was pastor of the Noxen-Eatenville United Methodist charge at the time. Later the family moved to New York State, where her father served various pastorates.

Upon graduation from Newark Valley High School, Evelyn attended National College in Kansas City, Missouri, Union College in Kentucky, and SUNY Oneonta. She married Ralph L. Palmer on June 7, 1952 and they raised five children together. Evelyn worked as a social worker for many years: as a caseworker for Delaware County, in Walton Central School, and at The Hospital, Sidney. Her first priority was always her family. She was a wonderful mother and friend to all. Blueberry picking with her grandchildren was a favorite past-time. Often she could be found crocheting, knitting, or creating crafts and jewelry. She was also a dedicated Christian, and served in many capacities at the First United Methodist Church of Walton. Evelyn was in the church choir for years. She was a recipient of the United Methodist Women Mission Award. Her column, "Evelyn's Corner," was a regular feature of the church's "Parish Messenger."

Survivors include her children, Karin (Gordon) Fletcher and Bruce (Catherine) Palmer of Walton; Steven (Sherry) Palmer of Melbourne, Florida; Kathy (John) Broughton of Vancouver, Washington; and Dennis (Jeannine) Palmer of Tucson, Arizona; grandchildren Heather Smith, Amanda Fletcher, Tiphany Bakker, Mykel Palmer, Faith Schmidt, Sarah Engler, Stephanie Page, Stacie Doran, Carly Alvare, Raymond, Elizabeth and Cathy Broughton, and Nicholas Carroll; sister Eleanor (Jim) Edwards and brother Rev. James (Wilma) Miller. Great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins also survive, as does Miss Blanche Robson of Durham, England, her dear friend and pen pal of 63 years. Evelyn's husband Ralph and her parents, Rev. William F. Miller and Mabel Miller, predeceased her, as did brothers Gifford W. Miller and Rev. John Miller, sister Elizabeth Miller, and grandson Jeremy Fletcher.

Friends and relatives are invited to call on Saturday morning, November 24, 2007 at the First United Methodist Church, 101 North St., Walton from 9 to 11 AM where services will be held at 11 AM with the Rev. Mark Del Giudice, officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care Inc., One Birchwood Drive, Oneonta, New York 13820, the First United Methodist Church, 101 North Street, Walton, New York 13856 or the American Cancer Society, 5 Oak Avenue, Sidney, New York 13838.