Search by Name

Search by Name

Ella Palmer Obituary

Ella Heyward Palmer MT. PLEASANT - On June 12th, Ella Heyward Palmer died peacefully at home, her desire, looking out on the oaks and marsh. Born in 1921, she was raised in Charleston and at Rockland Plantation on Wadmalaw Island, graduated from Ashley Hall, attended the College of Charleston and continued her education throughout her life. She raised her two sons, Stephen Palmer Dowdney of Mt. Pleasant and John Heyward Dowdney of Marin County before traveling the world and returning to her beloved roots. She was predeceased by her two husbands and all four younger siblings. Surviving are her two sons, four grandsons and three great grandchildren. For many of her formidable years she would visit for extended periods with her grandfather, John Heyward Lynah, at his rice plantation. There on Fife she witnessed firsthand the continuing saga of rice that brought so much to the early south. Her grandfather, South Carolina's last rice planter died in 1935. Thus, Ella Heyward might well be a last vestige of the old Carolina Gold rice culture. With her passing so closes the final chapter. Her last requests were simple; her body to be gifted to the Medical University, no memorial services, and in lieu of flowers or donations, she asked that everyone appreciate and celebrate life to the fullest. Visit our guestbook at www.legacy.com/obituaries/ charleston

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charleston Post & Courier from Jun. 12 to Jun. 13, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Ella Palmer

Not sure what to say?





Jim Glover

June 21, 2012

I was so sorry to learn that cousin Ella Heyward had passed away. Unfortunately I get my Post and Courier a week after things happen. She was quite a lady and was one of the grand dames in the family. I had not seen her in years but had a few nice chats on the phone. Another era has passed and she will be missed!

June 16, 2012

Steven and family, I had the pleasure of sharing an office with Ella Heyward at Coldwell Banker, and was fascinated with her stories and was privy to some her private thoughts and experiences,I never grew tired of listening to her,she was a great lady - may she rest in peace,and my thoughts are with you and your family. Liz Grant

Donna Brown

June 13, 2012

I worked with Ella Heyward while we were in real estate with Coldwell Banker. Her travel stories fascinated me. What a life she lived.A very special lady. God Bless the Family and most of all Ella Heyward.

Ann Marconi

June 13, 2012

Ella Heyward worked in my real estate office and even though she was in her 80's at the time her driving spirit was an inspiration to us all. She was one of a kind and we loved her for that.
God Bless you Ella Heyward.

Patti Vick

June 13, 2012

Ella will be missed by her friends and neighbors. It was always a pleasure talking to her on her walks.

Stephen Trainor

June 13, 2012

Steve,
Your mother was the kindest woman I have ever met. I feel so fortunate to have known her and extend my deepest sympathy to you.

Pamela Elia

June 13, 2012

Dear Steve,
Your mother was very special and loved by everyone who knew her. Please know that I share in your grief and extend my deepest sympathy to you.
I will miss the most profound intense discussions your mother and I shared these past few months. As soon as I sat by her side she was eager to express her thoughts, wisdom and great stories of times gone by. I think your mother's greatest legacy will be in the wonderful son she raised. She was so very proud of you and grateful for the loving care, kindness and comfort you selflessly gave to her.
You have my very deepest heartfelt sympathy.
Pamela Elia

Holly Herrick

June 13, 2012

To Steven Dowdney and the entire Palmer family, please accept my condolences for your loss. Miss Ella Heyward was a lovely, strong, intelligent, kind soul who brought much light, wit and wonder to this world. Her light will shine on in so many hearts, as it does in mine. Sending love and prayers to you all.

Showing 1 - 8 of 8 results

Make a Donation
in Ella Palmer's name

Memorial Events
for Ella Palmer

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Ella's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Ella Palmer's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more