Patricia Mary Palmer

Patricia Mary Jesinkey Palmer, 85, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and educator, passed away on Saturday February 7, 2026. She was born on September 16, 1940, in Brooklyn, New York, to William Jesinkey and Elizabeth Jesinkey (nee Lowery). Patricia grew up as the middle child with four siblings; William (Billy) Jesinkey, Elizabeth Ann (Betty) Perrin, Eugene (Gene) Jesinkey and Mary Frances Barron.

Patricia was predeceased by her devoted husband, Donald Edward Palmer, whom she married on June 26, 1964. Donald passed away on February 4, 2018, after more than five decades of marriage.

Patricia was a loving and dedicated mother to Carolyn Kim Keough and her husband Colum; Jennifer Darcy Collum and her husband David; and Amy Susan Kowalski and her husband Brian. She was a proud and adoring grandmother to Brendan Collum (27), William Collum (25), Aidan Keough (21), Caitlin Keough (18), Jake Kowalski (21) and Dylan Kowalski (17), each of whom brought her immense joy.

Patricia had a true passion for education. She attended Bishop McDonnell High School, earned her bachelor's degree in education from St. Joseph’s College and completed her master’s degree in early childhood education at Brooklyn College. She was an elementary school teacher in the NYC Public Schools before stepping away to raise her family. She did not give up on her passion for teaching as she continued on as a substitute teacher at Holy Name of Jesus School in Windsor Terrace. Later Patricia worked part-time at The Bookshelf and then Ballard’s in Windsor Terrace as she loved interacting with people.

Patricia loved celebrating holidays and special events surrounded by her extended family. Her many friendships, childhood friends to those she met later in life, were a constant source of happiness and comfort for Patricia. Patricia was known for her warm smile, quick wit, and wonderful sense of humor. She was deeply committed to her faith and was an active member of Holy Name of Jesus Parish. She often called upon patron saints to assist those close to her and even strangers she heard needed help. And those who knew her well were aware Saint Anthony was Patricia's most trusted protector. Her legacy lives on through her children and grandchildren. 

Patricia's Memorial Mass is being planned for the Spring at her home parish, the Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, 245 Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, NY. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made in Patricia's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at Stjude.org.

Arrangements by Gray Funeral Home, Westfield, NJ. Please go to: www.grayfuneralhomes.com to offer condolences.