Jo Ann Palmer, 82 years old, reunited with her Beloved Mom, Alice Burgess & best friend, Judy Cheney on February 7, 2025. She & husband Don met in 2nd grade at St. Joseph’s Elementary School and built a loving, joy-filled life for 53 years.
She was the daughter of G&A Burgess, who preceded her in death, as well as brothers, Sonny (Chuck), David & sister Lucy Burgess. She is survived by adoring daughters, Jenni Palmer and Traci Palmer Smith. She is survived by several siblings, especially special sisters, Sally Burgess and Susie Sebastian. Also, her large family included members of the Serin and Rohn families.
She was dedicated to the nurturing and education of children. She owned and operated Adrian Children’s World Preschools and, w/Don, opened eight locations.
She returned to teaching as a special education teacher and retired from Adrian Public Schools.
Jo Ann was passionate about music, music, music. Her love for Johnny Mathis led her to attending his many concerts all over the country from Nashville to Phoenix to Honolulu. She was enthralled when meeting him personally.
Don and Jo Ann were impassioned travelers and visited over 50 countries w/family and friends. Their favorite destination in the entire world was Switzerland and they were blessed to be able to spend many months there over the years. Jenni and Jo Ann spent years during summer months traveling all over Europe, the thrill of a lifetime. Don, Jo Ann and Jenni worked together to build their Travel Consultants Cruise Agency at the Adrian Mall and they cruised the world.
At Jo Ann’s request, cremation has taken place. A Virtual Memorial will be held at a later date. Contact Jenni Palmer for further information.
In lieu of flowers, any contributions can be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in memory of Jo Ann. She was extremely passionate about the heroes of 9/11.