Lawrence Ray Palmiter
Lawrence (Larry) Ray Palmiter, 83, of Charlotte passed away Wednesday, June 5, 2024. Larry was born December 16, 1940 in Lansing, MI. Larry was a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to many. He was a very dedicated, ambitious, and driven man, well known for his musical history, exceeding expectations with his band, The Blue Echoes. Larry and two classmates formed the band in 1957 at Resurrection High School, in Lansing. Best known for their hit songs Debbie, Its Witchcraft, and Cool Guitar, with Larry as the songwriter and lead vocalist. Larry and The Blue Echoes recorded their final single in 1972, but continued to play at more local events and venues. One of Larry’s proudest accomplishments is when the band was inducted into the Rockabilly Hall of Fame and the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame.
Larry’s passion for music began as a child while playing his mother’s piano, which grew into a love for playing guitar, a self-taught venture. He then began writing songs at the young age of fourteen. Larry’s passions did not end with his music, he was always ready to be a part of the party, if he was invited to anything, he was there without a question. Larry enjoyed spending time with his family, taking his grandchildren to the movie theatre to watch the latest flix, going to breakfast at Big Boy, visiting his daughters in Florida, and getting together with his long-time friend Roger Benham.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Sheila Palmiter; mother, Bernice Paquet; father, Robert Palmiter; sister, Mary Catherine Ryan; and brother, Ron Palmiter. He is survived by his sister, Roberta Lott; daughters, Angela, Nina, Theresa ; stepdaughter, Jodi; son, Paul; grandchildren, Brandon H, Britnie, Briana, Christine, Jessica, Matthew, Kevin, Micheal, Ryan, Truman, Robin, Brandon, and Samantha; and 11 great-grandchildren.
Friends are encouraged to support Larry’s family by attending services or sharing memories on Larry’s Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Funeral Service was held at Pray Funeral Home on Tuesday, June 11, with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. Interment followed in Maple Hill Cemetery.
The funeral was webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Larry’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.