Palmer, Helen Nolley

Helen Nolley Palmer, died on August 31, 2006 at the age of 90 after a long illness. She was born in Riner, Va. on January 4, 1916, and she was known to many simply as Aunt Helen. Her husband, C. Hampton “Hamp” Palmer, died in 1966. She is survived by her sister, Katie Nolley Willard of Christiansburg; two nephews, Barry Willard and Garry Willard of Christiansburg; and four nieces, Lynn Ward of North Tazewell, Rita O’Rourke of Virginia Beach, Patricia Barker of Roanoke, and Barbara Lawson of Colorado Springs, Colo.

In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by an infant baby son, a sister, Juanita Nolley Turner of Roanoke, and a brother, Thomas Jefferson Nolley, Jr. of Christiansburg. After her husband’s death, Mrs. Palmer took over the operation of a small grocery store founded by her husband, known as Hamp’s Superette, and managed it until her retirement in 1979.

After her retirement she became involved in many activities at the Christiansburg Presbyterian Church where she was an active and life-long member until her health deteriorated. In keeping with her wishes, there will be no visitation and a graveside ceremony will be held on Saturday, September 2, 2006 at 10 a.m. at Sunset Cemetery in Christiansburg.

The family wishes to thank all the wonderful people who have shown so much love, kindness and compassion over the last two years of what was otherwise a wonderful, healthy, active and happy life. Relatives, friends and many others contributed greatly toward her well-being and happiness during her life. Helen will be sorely missed by all those whose lives she touched.

Arrangements are being handled by the Horne Funeral Home, 382-2612. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.hornefuneral service.com.