Marynell Butler Palmer
December 22, 1940 – October 28, 2026
Marynell Butler Palmer, age 85, of Tampa, Florida passed away on October 28, 2026. She was born in Panama City, Florida to Henry Milton Butler and Edna Lois (Hutto). She moved to Tampa, Florida as a young child and graduated H.B. Plant High School in 1958. She began her lengthy career in telecommunications with GTE Florida in 1959. She worked several positions including bookkeeper, accountant and manager, retiring the first time in 1991. She continued to work as a project manager for telecommunications companies which provided opportunities to meet new people, enjoy different cultures and travel the country. She volunteered advocating for women’s rights and helping families survive tough times. She loved music, singing and dancing (her favorite dance partner was her son Gregory who “Cruised” with her across the dance floor). She also enjoyed playing games, trivia and debate. She was grateful to spend time with loved ones chatting about history, family and dreams. Her favorite adventure was being a Grandmother and she was amazing!
Known as “Marynell, Snell, ChiChi, Palmer, Cuzzin” and most preciously as “Nana, Mom and Aunt”. She loved her family and friends deeply and aimed to provide support and love with a friendly reminder to laugh. Throughout adversity, she remained optimistic and served as a role model, encouraging others to persevere. She truly felt that the world is a better place when you can find the good in any situation and laugh with loved ones.
She was preceded in death by her “Heart” Gregory Allen Palmer (Son); survived by her “Soul” Denise Palmer Zentler (Daughter), her “Warrior” John P. Zentler (Son-in-law) and the “Center of Her Universe” Charlotte Mary Zentler (Granddaughter). She was also preceded in death by siblings James T. Butler Sr., Johnny C. Butler Sr. and sister-in-law Margie Zaremba Butler. She is also survived by bonus children Johnny Ace Palmer (Joyce), Peggy Palmer Coltz (Dwayne) and Jenny Wilson-Garrett (Chris); sister-in-law Karen Kunz Butler; nephews James T. Butler Jr. (Tamara), Johnny C. Butler Jr. (Kim), Bart Butler and Matt Butler; nieces Alex, Jennifer, Kendall and Miranda; bonus siblings Ley Pichard, Sarah Coates and Billy Lang as well as incredible great-nephews, great-nieces and many special family members and life-long friends whom she loved dearly.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, November 15, 2026 at 11 AM at Picnic Island Park, 7404 Picnic Island Blvd, Tampa, FL 33616.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to The Spring of Tampa Bay and Brighter Tomorrows.
