Retha Louise Palmer passed away on October 31, 2013. She was born on November 8, 1924 in Strafford, Missouri to Berniece and George Chandler. She was married to James B. Palmer on May 11, 1946. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Weldon Chandler and his wife Marguerite. Retha was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother and grandmother and aunt. She is survived by her daughters; Carol Locke (Walter) and son James, Cathy Barron (Randy); son Kent Palmer and his children Chris Palmer (Paula) and Ashlea Palmer; three great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Retha worked at local retailers. In 1979 she opened Retha's on the Plaza, where friends became customers and customers became friends. She treated each person as an individual and with respect. Retha was a life-long member of University Heights Baptist Church. Private services were under the direction of Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to Care to Learn, 411 N. Sherman Parkway, 65802 or the charity of your choice.