Elige G. Palmer, 91, of Pensacola, FL passed away on Thursday, February 2, 2017 surrounded by loving family and friends after a final, courageous battle with cancer.

Elige was born on May 3, 1925 in Andalusia, AL, to Lawrence and Annie Hare Palmer. He served in the US Navy from 1943-1946 as a Turret Gunner on TBM aircraft. He was assigned to Squadron 20 flying out of Ft. Lauderdale, FL. After completing his military service, he moved to Jackson, MS and finally settled in Pensacola. He was a successful business owner in Escambia County for over 15 years.

Elige was very involved in the community as a member of various organizations such as the American Legion, Loyal Order of Moose Club, Waterfront Improvement Society, ROMEO (Retired Old Men Eating Out), the Krewe of Lafitte where he was honored to be Jean Lafitte XLVII in 2000, and was honored to be Apollo with the Krewe of Aphrodite.

He was preceded in death by his son, Jerry Palmer; daughter, Ann Byrd; and stepdaughter, Karen Rayfield.

Survivors include his loving wife of 37 years, Janice Palmer; a brother, Lewis Palmer; stepdaughter, Teresa Lemond (Terrell); granddaughter, Keli Jaquish (Dan); grandsons, John Byrd (Michelle) and Ryan Hicks (Brooke); great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and other family.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Daniel Jaquish, Ryan Hicks, John Byrd, Kirk Abrams, Hubert Williford, Keaton Baumert and Pete Loftin.

Visitation will be held 4-6pm Tuesday, February 7, 2017 at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel.  Funeral Service will be held 1:00pm Wednesday, February 8, 2017 at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel with Rev. Frank Beall officiating.  Burial will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 33 E. Gregory St., Pensacola, FL 32502 or to the Waterfront Rescue Mission.