Palmer Black's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Palmer Black
Palmer Black, a distinguished Command Master Chief in the U.S. Navy, a cherished father, and patriot, passed away at the age of 84 at home, surrounded by some of his loving children. Born in Cortez, Colorado, Palmer's life was a rich tapestry woven with dedication to his country, love for his children, a desire to travel the globe, and a passion for all things food. He greatly appreciated plants and gardening, and loved all animals, especially his dogs.
Palmer’s adventurous spirit and books like "The Caine Mutiny" inspired him to join the Navy. He pressed his mother so much that she relented and granted special permission to join at the age of 17. Military service took him across the globe, serving on frigates, destroyers, an ammunition ship, a mine sweeper, and an aircraft carrier:
USS Rowan (DD-782)
USS Gurke (DD-783)
USS Farenholt (DD-491)
USS Persistent (MSO-491)
USS Oriskany (CV-34)
USS Gray (FF 1054)
USS Mauna Kea (AE-22)
He was a true seagoing sailor whose travels brought him to live in and visit Japan, Hong Kong, Korea, Vietnam, Guam, Diego Garcia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Australia, Hawaii, Malaysia, and Singapore.
In the US, Palmer resided in many states, including Utah and Idaho, but his love for warmer climates led him to reside in California, Arizona, Texas, and Oregon. San Diego held a special place in his heart. He also loved living in Blanding, Utah where he accumulated many wonderful memories with his family. His kitchen, affectionately known as "Pop's Diner," was a hub of deliciousness, conversation, and laughter. He could smoke a mean brisket and was a master of many culinary creations.
His remarkable intelligence, broad range of skills, and exceptional leadership acumen did not go unnoticed, as he steadily ascended the enlisted ranks. As Command Master Chief, he worked tirelessly behind the scenes, mentoring, advocating for the underdog, and giving second chances to people whom others had written off.
As a professional therapist and recovered alcoholic of many decades, he was heavily involved in Alcoholics Anonymous and sponsored many on their journeys to sobriety. Palmer was sought after as a speaker and established most Narcotics Anonymous meetings on the Pacific coast. He was awarded his 50-year sobriety chip at a sobriety birthday celebration.
Palmer was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He loved to sing the hymns of Zion. Palmer had a soft heart, never spoke ill of others, and loved everyone. May we all learn to pray as tenderly as Palmer, asking God for what we need with thankful hearts. If he could, he would remind us now, as he did in life, that “nothing good comes from worry.” One of his last wishes was for all his children to know of his love for and testimony of the Savior.
Palmer adored his parents and siblings and was proud of his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren. He is survived by his children, Michael Tulley Black, Lela Dawn Black, EvaSue Taylor (Roy), Larry Edwin “Ed" Black (Georgia), Lyle Palmer Black Jr, (Ednalyn), Harvey Edson Black (Rachelle), Amy Black Peetz, and Donald William Black (Roselle); his vast lineage; and his siblings, Tim Black (Gail), Ted Black (Wendy), and Naida Black (Clisbee). Palmer was preceded in death by his father Edwin Zemira Black, mother Ardell Palmer, sisters Nancy Ardith Black and Edlenna Miller, brother Jeffrey Mark Black (Jerry), daughter Rayda Ardell Black, and grandson Trever Roy Taylor.
We greatly miss his quick wit, “dadly” advice, and thoughtful conversation. We will remember with fondness how his eyes twinkled when he smiled and how he could have a full eyebrow conversation without saying a single word.
We now bid farewell to our beloved sailor. His anchor is firmly set in the harbor of peace. We love you, Dad!
A graveside service and celebration of life will be held at noon on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at the Blanding City Cemetery. The family invites all who knew Palmer to join in honoring his memory. No official funeral will take place.
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