Coby Palmer (May 18, 1944 - September 2024)
Obituary
Coburn "Coby" James Palmer
May 18, 1944 — September 25, 2024
Indianapolis
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Coburn "Coby" James Palmer, who departed this world on September 25, 2024, in Indianapolis. He was born on May 18, 1944, in Fulton, New York, and lived a life rich in creativity, devotion, and service.
Coby will be remembered not only for his remarkable career as the owner of Coby Palmer Designs, where he wove beauty into the fabric of the community through his floral artistry, but also as a stalwart community advocate. Coby was a pioneer throughout his life and the visionary founder of the Indy Bag Ladies in the 1980's, an initiative that showcased his unwavering commitment to uplifting those around him. The Indy Bag Ladies is one of the first HIV/AIDS fundraising organizations in the country, helping people living with HIV, when no one else would. The impact he had on the community will be immeasurable. His passion for making the world more beautiful extended beyond his craft and into the very heart of the community he loved.
Coby's educational journey culminated in an associate degree that laid the foundation for his successful endeavors. He was proud to serve his country in the United States Navy, an experience that shaped his character and instilled in him values of discipline and respect.
Coby’s life was a testament to the beauty of artistry, dedication to community service, and the deep bonds of family. His presence will be profoundly missed, yet his spirit will continue to inspire those he touched throughout his journey on this Earth.
Damien Center
Coby Palmer (May 18, 1944- September 25, 2024) was a co-founder of the Indy Bag Ladies, one of the nation's oldest HIV/AIDS fundraising groups. Coby and the Bag Ladies were one of the first groups in Indiana to raise awareness and funds for the HIV/AIDS crisis.
Starting in 1981, Coby and fellow Bag Ladies started hosting the now famous "Bag Ladies Bus Tour" to support local individuals who were living with HIV. This was a time when stigma surrounding HIV was rampant, with people being ostracized by family and friends due to their HIV status.
Coby was not deterred and believed these individuals deserved to be treated with respect and dignity. His advocacy for people living with HIV led to Reverend Canon Earl Conner to contact the Bag Ladies about helping to found a new organization: Damien Center.
Through things like the Buddy Program, where people living with HIV were matched with community members who could help with basic needs or just be a comforting friend, Coby continued to advocate and champion for everyone impacted by HIV in our community.
Coby's impact remains powerful and ever-present at Damien Center. One of his big passions was making sure individuals living with HIV have access to quality food. In 2009 for his 65th birthday, we honored Coby by naming the food pantry after him.
Coby's legacy of kindness and generosity will continue at Damien Center through your support.