James Leo Palmer Sr.
James “Jimi” Leo Palmer Sr., 67, of Washington, passed away Monday, January 11, 2021, in his home, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born August 8, 1953, in Wheeling, W.Va., a son of the late James “Johnny” Palmer and Catherine L. Hairston.
He was a student at Beth Center and lived the majority of his life in Marianna.
On October 16, 1972, at the age of 19, he became a coal miner at Bethlehem Mines to support his growing family.
In 1978, Jimi and several of his best friends put a group together called F&M Production (Funk Mob) and he became the famous “P-Funk.” The Funk Mob traveled the country DJing parties and clubs. They also created a softball team that traveled city to city.
Around 1995, Jimi became a correctional officer at the Washington County Jail. A few years later, he went back to the mines and retired in 2015 at Console Energy.
He loved his friends and family. He enjoyed making everyone dance and laugh. In his last years, he enjoyed reminiscing, watching his favorite TV shows, playing solitaire and spending time with his “Boo Thang”, Ms. Connie Johnson.
Left behind to cherish his memories are his eight children, Traci (Sean) Smith of Washington, Sharee (Aaron) Gross of Pittsburgh, Jamie Palmer, James Palmer Jr. of Washington, Nicole (Dwight) Logan of Independence, Ky., Thaddius Wooley, Jaya Palmer and Javon Palmer, all of Washington; three siblings, Gwendolyn Powell of Washington, Lola Palmer and Walter “Sonny” Hairston of Daytona Beach, Fla.; 12 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He was preceeded in death by his parents; sister Charlotte Mann; and two brothers, William “Billy” Hairston and John “John-John” Hairston; and niece DeShawna L. Hairston.
The Palmer Family is eternally grateful for all of the kind words, heartfelt prayers and encouragement.
A graveside service will be held privately at The Washington Cemetery.
View and sign the family’s guestbook at pittsburghcremation.com.