Barbara Jean Palmer, 99, of Minerva, entered her eternal home March 17, 2026, from her residence on Freed Street.

Barbara was born Jan. 26, 1927, in Washington Township to Lawrence and Ruth B. (Grimes) Byers.

She attended Mt. Pleasant School and graduated from Alliance High School in 1943. She resided in the area all her life.

She is survived by her sons, Bob (fiancée Debbie) of the home, Jim (Shelley) of Westerville and Larry (Diana) of New Franklin; four grandsons, Evan and Elliot (Jackie), Daniel (Tiffany) and Kyle (Gina); and three great-grandchildren, Lucas, Leah and Alena.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth, with whom she shared 63 years of marriage; her younger sister, Ruth Ann Palmer, who married Kenneth’s brother; and a great-grandson, Liam.

Barbara worked in the laboratory of Transue-Williams Steel Forging from 1944 to 1949 and, in what was humorously described as the longest maternity leave on record, returned to the same position in 1972. She retired in 1989.

Barbara was a member of Minerva First Christian Church, joining in 1958 to establish a church home in the community where her children would attend school. She served as a deaconess, worked in the Home Department and was superintendent of the Primary Department Sunday school in the early 1960s. She was the church organist for nearly 30 years and played for many weddings, both at her home church and at other area churches. Although initially intimidated by playing a pipe organ, she overcame her hesitation and became accomplished. She celebrated her 90th birthday by presenting a piano and organ musical program with her son, Jim, accompanying her on piano.

Her hobbies included genealogy, music, reading, crossword puzzles, knitting and crocheting. Her work in genealogy made her the unofficial family historian, and she compiled extensive lineage records spanning many generations. Her afghans grace the homes of many friends and relatives.

Barbara was also a skilled seamstress. Having had three sons, she turned her talents to making Barbie doll clothes. Many young girls in Minerva visited the Fair Store for the latest fashions created on Barbara’s sewing machine. She also made uniforms for several Minerva High School cheerleading squads.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, March 24, at 11 a.m. at Minerva First Christian Church with Pastor Chad Palmer officiating.

Burial followed in Liberty Cemetery.

Calling hours were Monday, March 23, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at Gotschall-Hutchison Funeral Home in Minerva and one hour prior to services from 10-11 a.m. at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to the church or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Condolences may be shared at www.gotschallfuneralhome.com.