Susan Smith Palmer

Mrs. Susan Smith Palmer, 65, of Gastonia, died Friday, June 17, 2016.  She was born August 10, 1950 in Gaston County, NC, a daughter of the late William Boyd Smith and Mary Virginia Smith.

Susan worked for many years as a registered nurse.  Her patients often remarked about her tenacious advocacy for their best care.  She was an affectionate wife, a staunch second mom to her nephews, a second-to-none "Mimi" to her great-niece and great-nephew, and a devoted mother to a herd of Yorkshire Terriers, all spoiled rotten. She fostered fast and durable friendships.  She laughed hard and often. She was warm and generous.  Above all, she was kind.

Survivors of Mrs. Palmer include her husband, Joe T. Palmer of Gastonia; brother, Kevin R. Smith of Myrtle Beach, SC; nephews, C. Michael Crisp of Charlotte, NC and Matthew W. Crisp and wife Crystal of Gastonia; a great-nephew, Landon M. Crisp, and a great-niece, Kinley M. Crisp, both of Gastonia; two stepsons, M. Daune Palmer, of Owensboro, Kentucky, and David G. Palmer, of Colorado Springs, CO, and several extended family members.

In addition to her parents, Susan was preceded in death by her sister, Deborah S. Crisp.

Funeral arrangements are private.

The family wishes to express its ardent gratitude to the staff of Carolinas HealthCare System's Levine Cancer Institute, and in particular Dr. Kathryn Mileham, who cared for Susan with equal parts enthusiasm, kindness, expertise and compassion.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Carolinas HealthCare Foundation, Inc., PO Box 32861, Charlotte, NC  28232 to support lung cancer research.

"may the tide

that is entering even now

the lip of our understanding

carry you out

beyond the face of fear

may you kiss

the wind then turn from it

certain that it will

love your back    may you

open your eyes to water

water waving forever

and may you in your innocence

sail through this to that"

~ Lucille Clifton

Greene Funeral Service is serving the Palmer family.