Charlie George Palmer Jr.

Charlie George Palmer Jr., born on October 10, 1949, peacefully transitioned into his eternity on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Piedmont Augusta Hospital. A man whose life was marked by steadfast dedication, resilience, and an enduring love for his family, Charlie’s journey stands as a testament to strength and perseverance.

Raised on a farm in Blakely, Charlie left formal schooling early but demonstrated his determination to succeed by earning his GED while serving in the military. Drafted during a tumultuous time, he married and, after completing basic training, was sent to Vietnam where he served two tours as both an Airborne and Tank Sergeant. It was during this period that his deep affection for heavy equipment and machinery began to take root.

After honorably served his country, he moved his family to Dothan, Alabama. There, working at a rock mine, he mastered the operation of a dragline, igniting a passion that would inspire him to pursue greater knowledge of cranes. In 1979, he relocated his family to the Augusta-Hephzibah area to work at Plant Vogtle as a crane operator. Charlie’s career spanned numerous construction companies; locally, he contributed his expertise to projects such as Riverwalk, and throughout the Southeast and across the United States, he lent his skills to large-scale endeavors including malls and hospitals. Notably, his commitment extended beyond the ordinary as he actively participated in disaster relief efforts, often living out of his truck while helping with cleanup operations.

Charlie was not only a dedicated professional but also a man of rich character and warmth. Known as a jokester with a treasure trove of stories, he embodied strength and old-school values. His hard work and role as a provider were unwavering, with family held above all else. He was especially devoted to his daughters and cherished the time spent with them. Among his favorite pastimes were operating his CB radio as a member of the Channel 16 Club—where he was affectionately known as “Dragline”—gardening, planting trees, traveling, and famously navigating roads without the aid of modern GPS, earning him the nickname "living GPS."

Charlie’s family and friends mourn the loss of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He is survived by his devoted daughters, Shonda P. Graham and her husband Jeremy, Rhonda P. Davis and her husband Chris and Masha Dunkel and her husband Greg. His legacy continues through six grandchildren: Nicholas Case and his wife Sarah, Ryan Case and his partner Dom, Zane Autaubo and his partner Shannon, Rhyanna Palmer and her partner Mason, Christy Davis, and Gavin Davis. He also leaves behind a great-granddaughter, Elisabeth Jo Case. Charlie’s two sisters—Shirley Howard, and Priscilla Hromalik—along with nieces, nephews, extended family, and a wide circle of friends, all carry forward his memory.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Josie Clarice Shellhouse Palmer; his parents, Helen Mitchell Palmer and Charlie George Palmer Sr.; and sisters Betty Harrell, Ellen Whaley, and Ernestine Tatum.

Visitation will be held at James Funeral Home Friday, April 17, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. A memorial service with military honors will follow at 2:00 PM officiated by Rev. Jason Burton.

Charlie George Palmer Jr.’s life was a remarkable blend of dedication, love, and resilience. He leaves behind a profound impact on those who knew him, remembered not only for his immense strength and commitment but also for his humor and unwavering spirit. His legacy endures in the hearts of his family and the wider community he touched throughout his lifetime.