Kathryn Louise Palmer Coburn

Kathryn was born on August 24, 1932 in Edom, TX in the home of her parents, O.T. and Sadie Palmer during the Great Depression. She was their third child in what would eventually become nine. Her parents were sharecroppers and life was hard. It was no surprise when at the age of 15 she left behind her family and the fields to strike it out on her own in Dallas, TX. It was there she met the love of her life, Carlton Coburn, who like her was from a small town looking for work in the city. They married in 1950 when she was 17 years old and he 20 – a union that would last for 61 years. The new family lived and worked in Dallas until the military call came for Carl, who joined the ranks of the United States Navy. The two small-town kids found themselves in Maryland where Carl was assigned to the presidential retreat of Camp David under President Eisenhower and later aboard the presidential yacht, U.S.S. Williamsburg. After the military, they moved to Mesquite, TX where Kathy would become an elementary school teacher. For 26 years she taught mostly fourth grade at Shands Elementary in Mesquite I.S.D. Upon retirement they relocated to Tyler to be near family. Their home was a place for fun gatherings where food, laughter and the game of 42 passed the time. Kathy enjoyed her family and friends immensely. They joined Colonial Hills Baptist Church where Kathy would sing in Silver Notes – the choir for senior citizens. On Sunday mornings she could be found at the church doors serving as a greeter. Her beautiful smile and sweet disposition made everyone feel welcomed. She had a strong relationship with God throughout her life. Services for Kathryn will be held Sunday, March 9, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Stewart Family Funeral Home with Rev. Jason White Officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brothers Ray Palmer and Shirley Dale Palmer, sisters Laverne Leavins and Mildred Felts. Kathy will be forever cherished by her daughters: Deborah Coburn Jones and husband Dr. Jeffrey of Peachtree Corners, GA, and Cynthia Coburn Ogletree and husband Steve of Flint. She was “Nanny” to her five grandchildren: Lance Ogletree and wife Melissa, Stephen Ogletree and wife Dr. Manuela Ochoa, Dr. Ryan Ogletree and wife Lauren, Dr. Candace Jones and fiancé Christian Sepulveda, and Jason Jones. She is also survived by her precious five great grandchildren: Ainsley, Kallie, Elliot, Samuel and Benjamin Ogletree. Kathy is also survived by her sisters: Betty Phillips and Brenda Compton; brothers, Bobby Palmer and Ronald Palmer.

Kathryn Louise Palmer Coburn

August 24, 1932 - March 1, 2025