Betty Jo Palmer

1934 - 2025

Betty Jo Palmer

March 11, 1934 - May 7, 2025

Lexington, Kentucky - Betty Jo Martin Palmer passed away peacefully on May 7, 2025, at her home in Lexington, Kentucky. With her family by her side, she joined her deeply loved late husband, Charlie, on what would have been his 92nd birthday. Born on March 11, 1934, in Lexington to the late Richard A. and Marzee Dyer Martin, Betty Jo's life was a testament to her unwavering commitment to her family and her community.

Betty Jo's academic journey was marked by excellence. She graduated from the University of Kentucky in 1956, where she was honored with the Sullivan Medallion, recognizing her noble character and dedication to service. Her professional career was deeply intertwined with her alma mater, where she served with distinction in various capacities. From Assistant Dean of Women to Associate Dean of Students, and ultimately as the Director of Special Services and Vice President of University Relations, Betty Jo's contributions to the University of Kentucky were profound and lasting. She held numerous national positions on the National Mortar Board Council, contributed significantly to the National Association of Women Deans and Counselors, and was a respected member of the Kentucky Deans Association and the Southern College Personnel Association. Her strategic guidance was sought by the National Committee Advisor to the Intercollegiate Association of Women Students.

Her dedication to education extended to local governance, where she served on The Lexington School Board of Trustees for over a decade, including a term as Board Chair. Betty Jo's contributions included spiritual leadership as well, serving on the Christ Church Cathedral Vestry and as Senior Warden, setting a precedent for women in leadership roles within the church. Her leadership skills were further recognized when she became a member of the 2nd graduating class of Leadership Kentucky in 1986.

Betty Jo's passion for community service was also evident through her extensive involvement with the Junior League of Lexington, where she served as President and was a key figure on the Association of Junior Leagues of America's Board of Directors. A life member of the University of Kentucky Alumni Association, she also held leadership roles in numerous local organizations, including Planned Parenthood, Florence Crittenden Home, American Red Cross, and the Living Arts and Science Center.

In 1984, Betty Jo embarked on a successful second career in real estate, ultimately becoming a founding member of Bluegrass Sotheby's International Realty. Her expertise and dedication earned her a place in the Lexington Board of Realtors Million Dollar Club, and she led the organization as its President in 1994.

Her social engagements were marked by her membership in the Idle Hour Country Club and her role as President of the Chi Omega Alumni Association. Betty Jo's legacy of service and leadership was further cemented by her work as a Leadership Development Trainer for the Voluntary Action Center.

While Betty Jo's lifetime was marked by extraordinary achievement and accolades, she was always proudest of her role as a mother. As a close friend so perfectly put it, Rodgers was the brightest star in her sky. Her legacy of love lives on in him and in her grandchildren.

Betty Jo's memory is cherished by her loving family, including her son, Rodgers (Katherine); grandchildren, Curan and Merrell; and step-grandchildren Ellie, Patrick, and Tatum. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 56 years, Charles E Palmer Jr., and their dog Bitsy, her beloved sister, Ann Rodgers Ashley, and her parents.

Betty Jo Palmer's life was a tapestry of service, leadership, and unwavering love for her family and community. Her impact on those she touched will be felt for generations to come. As we honor her memory, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of purpose and grace.

Services will be held Saturday, May 17th, 2025, at Christ Church Cathedral, 166 Market Street, Lexington, KY. Visitation at 2:00pm, Service at 3:00pm, with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christ Church Cathedral or The Lexington School.