Joyce Brunnemeyer Palmer of Wallingford passed away peacefully on March 21 at the age of 86.
Joyce was born on July 4, 1930 in Aurora, Ill., the daughter of John Emil and Pauline Brunnemeyer.
A dancer, artist and performer from a young age, Joyce was a graduate of West Aurora High School and the University of Illinois, where she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma and received a bachelor’s degree in fine arts.
While at the university, Joyce was a member of the Marshall Fields Fashion Board. Joyce was a Daughter of the American Revolution.
Joyce married Peter Cole Palmer on June 7, 1952 in a double wedding with her sister Carol Ann. Joyce and Peter enjoyed a beautiful and fulfilling marriage of 64 years.
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— an obituary from Wallingford Funeral Home
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While he was an executive in IBM, Joyce and Peter were residents of many places: Aurora; Endicott, N.Y.; Greensboro, N.C.; Tokyo and Hong Kong, to name a few. But they were longtime residents of Darien and Charleston, S.C. Those who knew Joyce were graced by her humor, her caring, and her elegance.
In Darien, Joyce was a beacon in the community, a member of the Woodway Country Club and worked in a number of high fashion retail establishments. During her time in Hong Kong, Joyce was a vibrant part of the IBM expatriot community and became an expert in Asian antiques. Joyce also became a renowned hostess on land — and at sea, on her beloved junk, “Frivolous.”
In Charleston, Joyce was an active member of the Country Club of Charleston, continued to work in retail and became a devoted bridge player, making many friends through the game through the rest of her life.
A doting mother, grandmother and devoted wife, Joyce was an epitome of style who simultaneously created a warm and loving home and presented herself immaculately and impeccably — always. Throughout her life, Joyce was also an affectionate owner of golden retrievers who treasured her beloved dogs Drifter and Devon.
Joyce is survived by her husband, Peter, and by her sons Peter Cole Palmer, Jr. and Christopher John Palmer; their wives, Patti and Kim; and grandchildren Katie, Emily, Ian and Jackson. Joyce was preceded by her sister, Carol Ann Brunnemeyer, who passed away in 1971.
Joyce was truly loved and will be deeply missed.
A reception for friends and family celebrating the life of Joyce will be held from 1 to 3 p.m., Saturday, April 1, 2017 at the home of Cole and Patti Palmer at 19 Grove Point Road, Westport.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Joyce’s name to the Charleston Animal Society or the Connecticut Humane Society.