Barbara Block Palmer, known lovingly to many as Barbara Ann, passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2026, in Paducah, Kentucky. She was born on June 25, 1944, in Paducah, KY, to the late George “Sugar” Block and Elsie Terrell Block McCutchen.
Barbara Ann was a proud native of Paducah and attended St. Paul Lutheran Church throughout her life, a place that held deep meaning for her from the earliest years of her childhood. She was baptized there and attended elementary school at St. Paul from first through sixth grade, laying the foundation for a faith and fellowship that remained important to her throughout her life. Her connection to the church reflected the steady values, quiet strength, and enduring devotion that guided her days.
Barbara Ann pursued her education and earned a Bachelor's Degree from Murray State University with Summa Cum Laude distinction. She worked as an Engineering Clerk at South Central Bell Telephone Company. And a notable achievement, she became the first female installer for the area at South Central Bell Telephone Company, breaking new ground and setting an example of courage and perseverance for others who would follow. She later contributed her talents to HGH research at Vanderbilt University Hospital, where her work supported important efforts in the medical field.
Barbara Ann had a love for horses, and that affection brought her joy throughout her life. She was also an artist, and her creative spirit was reflected in the beauty and care she brought to her work and to the world around her.
Barbara Ann is survived by her husband of 50 years, Robert Bruce Palmer of Paducah; her two sons, Christopher (Ginger) Colson and Tracey Colson, both of Paducah; a daughter, Lara Palmer (Mitchell) Langvardt of St. Peter’s, MO; her two grandchildren, Tracey Hayden and Charlotte Langvardt; a sister, Paula Sue Hite of Paducah and a niece, Holly Warren (Michael) Beck of Mayfield.
Funeral services will be at 11:00 AM on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Paducah, with Pastor David Appold officiating. Burial will follow at Beyer Cemetery in Paducah. Visitation will be on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 5:00-8:00 PM at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Paducah Public Schools' STAY Program, 2200 Washington Street, Paducah, KY 42001.
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