Ilma Cross Palmer, better known as Judy, died February 24, 2026. She was born February 2, 1925 and reached the age of 101. She is a long-time resident of Warren County and has roots in Logan County. Judy was employed by Deemer's Florist as a designer for many years. She was an active member of Living  Hope Church where she served as Greeter.
We are thankful for the "Women of Care Ministry" and others at Living Hope for their love and support for Judy through the years. Thank you to Chandler Park Assisted Living staff and fellow residents  for their love and friendship and  Hospice for their compassionate care.  She enjoyed meeting people, visiting by phone with family and neighbors. She maintained friends even when they relocated. She was remembered by many friends and residents at Chandler Park Assisted Living as the "Fine and Dandy Lady".

She was preceded in death by her father, John Roe Ballance; mother, Oma Angel Ballance; husband, Richard Palmer; brother, Joseph Winston Ballance ; sister, Nan Elizabeth Hayden; twin brother, Elmer "Haz" Pence Ballance; and a great nephew, Brent Martin.

She is survived by eight nieces and nephews; Ann Roe Martin (Don); Joy Lynn Bush; Joe Neal Ballance (Pat); Jean Meador Ballance; John Murray Ballance (Phyllis); JoAnn Ballance Bundock (Don); Bill Ballance (Gail) and John Franklin Ballance (Katie). Several great nieces and great nephews; Lee Ann Merritt (Drew); Julie Warden Spears (A.J.); Amy Warden Martin; Jon Warden (Misty); Neal Winston Ballance (Neeley); Beth James (Garrett); Cristen Powers (Jared); Sarah Renick (Corbin); Cammie Barnard (Brian); Bill V. Ballance (Tyra); Jennifer Brooks (Justin); B.J. Ballance; Julie Kiser (Taylor); Ryan Ballance; Reagan Ballance; and Reid Ballance. Judy had 32 great-great nieces and nephews.

Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 pm, Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Johnson Vaughn Phelps Funeral Home with burial in Woodburn Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Saturday at Johnson Vaughn Phelps Funeral Home.