James “Jimi” Leo Palmer Sr.

James “Jimi” Leo Palmer Sr., age 67 of Washington, passed away January 11, 2021 at home surrounded by his loved ones.  He was born August 8, 1953 in Wheeling, WV, a son of the late James “Johnny” Palmer and Catherine L. Hairston.

He was a student at Beth Center and lived the majority of his life in Marianna, PA.

On October 16, 1972 at the age of 19, he became a Coal Miner at Bethlehem Mines to support his growing family. In 1978, Jimi and several of his best friends put a group together called F&M Production (Funk Mob) and he became the famous “P-Funk.”  The Funk Mob traveled the country DJing parties and clubs.  They also created a softball team that traveled city to city. Around 1995 Jimi became a Correctional Officer at the Washington County Jail.  A few years later, he went back to the mines and retired in 2015 at Console Energy.

He loved his friends and family. He enjoyed making everyone dance and laugh.  In his last years he enjoyed reminiscing, watching his favorite TV shows, playing solitaire and spending time with his “Boo Thang” Ms. Connie Johnson.

Left behind to cherish his memories are his eight children, Traci (Sean) Smith of Washington, Sharee (Aaron) Gross of Pittsburgh, PA, Jamie Palmer, James Palmer Jr. of Washington, PA, Nicole (Dwight) Logan of Independence, Kentucky, Thaddius Wooley, Jaya Palmer and Javon Palmer all of Washington, PA; 3 siblings Gwendolyn Powell of Washington, PA, Lola Palmer and Walter “Sonny” Hairston of Daytona Beach, FL. 12 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Preceeded in death by his parents, sister, Charlotte Mann and 2 brothers William “Billy” Hairston and John “John-John”Hairston and niece DeShawna L. Hairston.

The Palmer Family would like to thank you for your kind words, heartfelt prayers and encouragement.

A graveside service will be held privately at The Washington Cemetery.

Please view and sign the family’s online guestbook at pittsburghcremation.com.