Obituaries

Mary Frances Palmer (née Furlong) of Crestview Hills, Kentucky passed away peacefully with her family at her side on August 24, 2026. She had celebrated her 89th birthday on August 2nd. She was lovingly known by many as “Grandma Mary.”

She is preceded in death by her parents Edward and Lorena (née Adams) and her brother Edward C. Furlong, Jr.

She valued and was proud of the 29 years she worked as an Executive Assistant for the Kenton County Airport Board. She was dedicated and organized. After she retired, it took a team of three to do what she'd been handling on her own.

Mary was a kind and generous person who always took care of others – not only her family but neighbors and friends. She was a wonderful mother. Her heart always belonged to her grandchildren. She never missed a sporting event or other activity for any of them throughout their childhoods. Her concern until the very end was making sure her grandchildren had all that they needed.

Over the years, she traveled around the world to 5 continents. She often shared stories about her travels. Her grandchildren each inherited her enthusiasm for travel.

Mary had a talent and passion for taking photos. Sharing the photos she took with others brought her great joy. She also willingly shared her skill as a seamstress with many over the years. She loved animals, the Cincinnati Zoo (especially Fiona the hippo and the gorillas), and was an avid supporter of UK Basketball and the Cincinnati Reds.

Mary is survived by her children, Diana Vollman (Daniel) and K. Michael Palmer (Elisabeth); grandchildren Austin Palmer (Jesse), Nicole Vollman, Grant Palmer, Brianna Vollman, and Carson Palmer; bonus grandchildren Logan Behymer (Brandi), Tanner Hill, and Morgan Hill; and bonus great-grandchildren Brooks Behymer and Vivienne Behymer.

Arrangements are being handled by Stith Funeral Homes. All who loved and cared about Mary are invited to attend a Celebration of Life in her honor on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at the Clubhouse at Triple Crown Country Club, 1 Triple Crown Blvd Union, KY 41091 from 3pm-6pm.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Mary may consider an online donation to the Cincinnati Zoo in her memory at cincinnatizoo.org/tribute-gift.