Carol Palmore

Carol Palmore died peacefully at home in Frankfort on Sunday, December 6, 2015. Survivors include her husband of 34 years, former Kentucky Supreme Court Chief Justice John S. Palmore, her sister, Robin Pate, step-granddaughter Julie Palmore Williams, Julie�s husband Will and their daughters, Lili and Dorsey Williams. She was preceded in death by a brother, Leonard Pate. Carol was born January 13, 1949 in Owensboro, the daughter of P. J. and Carrie Pate. She was a 1971 graduate of Murray State University and completed her law degree at the University of Kentucky in 1977. Immediately after passing the bar exam, she became an associate with the Owensboro law firm of Rummage, Kamuf and Yewell. She was the only female attorney in Owensboro at that time, foreshadowing her future career, in which she often became the first or the only female to hold various offices or positions. A consummate public servant, Carol first began her career as a state social worker and later went on to serve in cabinet level positions under four Kentucky Governors. She served as Labor Secretary under Governors Martha Layne Collins, Wallace Wilkinson and Brereton Jones. And then she served as Secretary of Personnel under Governor Paul Patton, a post from which she retired in 2003. In every position, she was respected and revered by her staff, her colleagues, and leaders in both the executive and legislative branches. Carol was long active in the Democratic Party and a tireless and enthusiastic supporter of numerous candidates for public office. She herself ran for Secretary of State in 1995, and most recently was serving as a member of the Franklin County Democratic Executive Committee. Her dedication to community service was demonstrated in the numerous boards and committees on which she served, including the Frankfort Rotary Club, where she served as President, The Kentucky Women�s Leadership Network Board, and her service as President of the Kentucky Bar Foundation. A devoted wife, loving sister, and dear and loyal friend to countless individuals, Carol Palmore was an inspiration to everyone she touched. Her effervescent personality lit up the room whenever she was present and her generosity of spirit made a lasting mark on all who knew her. There will be no public service. Memorial gifts may be made to the Franklin County Humane Society, 1041 Kentucky Ave., Frankfort, KY 40601. The family requests no flowers. Arrangements are under the direction of Harrod Brothers Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared via the online guest book at www.harrodbrothers.com

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Carol Palmore

January 13, 1949 - December 6, 2015