David Keith Palmer, Sr.

February 13, 1951 - November 7, 2023
David Keith Palmer, Sr.

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David Keith Palmer, Sr. peacefully passed away on November 7, 2023, at the age of 72. He was born in Lexington, NC, to his loving parents George H. Palmer and Francis M. Palmer, who have now welcomed him into Heaven.

David’s passion in life was fishing, and he enjoyed spending time on the water with his beloved wife at Sunny Point Military Ocean Terminal, where he dedicated over 20 years of his career. In his leisure time, he found solace in reading and watching westerns, as well as attending car shows. One particularly memorable experience was when his daughter took him to see Jay Leno and his impressive collection of cars on display.

Having served in the US Army and the National Guard, David proudly defended his country. On May 3, 1972, he received an honorable discharge, marking the end of his military service. He continued his dedication to his fellow veterans as an active member of the VFW chapter 12196 in Leland, NC.

David is survived by his loving wife, Wanda, their daughter Melody Casteen, and their son David Palmer, Jr. He was a cherished Papa to his four grandchildren, Tyler and Christopher Casteen of Leland, NC, and Mackenzie and Chase Palmer of Wilmington, NC. He adored each of them and wanted them to always remember how much he loved them. Additionally, he is survived by his three brothers, as well as numerous nephews and nieces.

Services to honor David’s life will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 1:00 PM at the family home located at 8981 Crooked Oak Court, Leland, NC 28451. Family and friends are invited to attend a small presentation officiated by Roy Willett. The dress code is casual, so please come as you are.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Raye Brinson for her unwavering support and assistance over the years.

David Keith Palmer, Sr. will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace.

Services are entrusted to Wilmington Funeral and Cremation. Please leave condolences for the family on his Tribute Wall.


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  • November 23, 2023
    Roberta Fox says:
    Wanda I am so sorry for your loss. Davis was a wonderful person. Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

  • November 18, 2023
    Shay says:
    I will always cherish the memories that I have with the Palmer family. There was never a time that I was there that Pops and I were joking around or him telling me a story that he'd told me 100x already but I enjoyed every minute of it. Love you,Pops! I got feet!! (Our Christmas Laugh for years)

  • November 18, 2023
    Heather and Joshua Sandlin says:
    Wanda, Melody and extended family I'm sorry to hear of the passing of ur beloved husband, daddy, grandpa, uncle, brother, cousin and friend too many. Please accept my heartfelt condolences and may God give you peace and comfort thru this difficult time. Sending prayers, hugs and love your family's way. Heather and Joshua Sandlin

  • November 16, 2023
    Betty lit a candle:
    Lit since November 16, 2023 at 11:56:24 PM

  • November 10, 2023
    Ricky Meeks says:
    My prayers with David family members and Wanda. David was a great person last time seeing him at the Waffle House of Leland. In Loving Remembrances