Edward James Palmer

Edward J. Palmer, age 84, of South Weymouth, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2023, surrounded by his wife and close family.

Ed was born, raised, and educated in Weymouth, graduating from Sacred Heart High School in 1957. As a proud veteran of the United States Army, he served as a Specialist E4, stationed in Korea. Ed spent most of his career in the insurance industry, having worked for Allstate Insurance for over twenty-five years in various management roles. With an entrepreneurial spirit and strong work ethic, he started his own business, E. Palmer Appraisals, and was well known on the South Shore for his expertise and service. After retiring from his business, he worked part time for the Quirk Automotive Group and enjoyed the close camaraderie with his co-workers. Ed was also a member of the Weymouth Elks and the American Legion at the Nickerson Post in Squantum.  

A man of many talents, Ed had a passion for woodworking, creating beautiful and unusual projects that showcased his craftsmanship and resourcefulness. His creativity extended to other realms as well, including arts and crafts, where he delighted in bringing joy to others through his imaginative seashell designs. Ed loved working in the yard, creating beautiful rock walls and cultivated landscapes with colorful flowers and artistic creations. He also enjoyed baking and infused his personality into every cookie and cake that he made.

Everyone knew Ed as a jovial storyteller with a knack for telling jokes (including the bad ones) and he could light up any room. His smile and laughter were infectious, bringing joy and levity to every family gathering. Ed absolutely loved people and through his sense of humor, he would quickly establish a genuine and lasting connection with others.

For many years, Ed and his wife Catherine (Cathy) enjoyed spending time in Ft. Myers Beach and Naples, Florida, where they would reside for part of the year. They enjoyed lounging on the beach, exploring local flea markets, or spending time with close friends at the Outrigger restaurant. Ft. Myers held a special place in his heart.

Above all, Ed cherished the time he spent with his family. His fondest moments in life were spent with his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was a man of faith and quietly demonstrated the tenets of his Catholic beliefs. Ed will be remembered not only for his achievements and passions, but for the kindness, generosity, and warmth he shared with everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Ed is survived by his beloved wife of fifty-nine years, Catherine (Fitzgerald) Palmer of South Weymouth. He is also survived by his loving children, Edward Palmer and his wife Kristen, of South Weymouth and Dolly Hardy and her husband Shawn, of South Weymouth. Ed will be greatly missed by his grandchildren, Thomas and his wife Ashley, Joseph, Matthew and his wife Lexi, John, Patrick, and Lila, and his great grandchildren, Luke, Jack and Amelia. He is predeceased by his loving sister, Mary Rollin of Oswego, NY. Ed was loved by his many nieces and nephews, cousins, friends, and extended family members.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a visitation for Ed on Thursday, December 28, from 4:00 pm -8:00 pm, in the C.C. Shepherd Funeral Home, located at 134 Pleasant St (Columbian Sq.) South Weymouth. Relatives and friends will gather in the funeral home the following morning for a Celebration of Life for Ed at 9:00 am, prior to the Mass at Saint Francis Xavier Church in Weymouth at 10:00 am.