Mary Wilene Palmer Landfair

Wilene Palmer was born on All Saints Day, and often reminded her family that it made her a saint by default. Those closest to her might gently raise an eyebrow at that claim—given her perfectionist tendencies, unmatched stubbornness, and limited restraint when it came to sharing her opinion. But Wilene was also stylish, steadfast, and armed with a keen sense of humor.

Wilene Landfair passed away on Easter Sunday, perhaps her final wink to divine comedic timing.

As a child of educators, Wilene moved often throughout Mississippi and Arkansas. She eventually made Richardson, Texas her forever home with the love of her life, Gerald.

She spent the bulk of her career as an Office Careers instructor at Richland College, where she helped students—mostly women—find their footing in the professional world. After retiring, she channeled her organizational flair and training expertise to her church, managing First United Methodist Richardson’s receptionist volunteers with the same precision she once brought to the classroom. It is certain that the welcome desk in heaven has never run smoother.

She loved jazz--played loudly--chocolate in any form, and never met a pound cake she couldn’t perfect. She raised one daughter—by choice, and by design—and made it known that one was plenty. Her home operated under a clear maxim of “A place for everything and everything in its place.”

Her blue eyes sparkled when she laughed. She was especially adept at knowing how to laugh at herself frequently sharing her “I did a dumb” while laughing through it. Her legacy lives on in every meticulously arranged drawer, every heartfelt piano note, and her deep devotion—to her students, her church, and most of all, her friends and family, especially her pride and joy: her two grandchildren.

Wilene is survived by her sister Lynda Robinson, daughter—Jeri Landfair Chambers and son-in-law Rick Chambers, grandchildren Taylor Rene’ Chambers Michell (Andre’), Austin Landfair Chambers (soon to be official, Kalli) great-grands—Henry Joseph Michell and Damien Landfair Michell and multiple nieces and nephews—Barbara, Mark, Cherry, Carolyn, Stacy, and Rob. Wilene is preceded in death by her husband of 65 years Gerald Ivy Landfair; her parents Wilber C. Palmer and Lorene May Palmer.

The family expresses much gratitude to the wonderful staff of true caregivers at The Bader House/Hope Springs Memory Care in Plano, Texas for all the love and dignity they gave Wilene the last three years.

Wilene leaves behind a legacy of strength, wit, and love that will be carried forward by all who knew her.”

Should you wish to honor her memory please send a financial gift to First United Methodist Church of Richardson designated to “Pastor’s Fund”.

A private family celebration of her life will be held at a later date