Sandra Jeanne Palmer, beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, professor and friend passed away peacefully on Dec. 16, 2025, at her home in Cazenovia. She was fiercely independent, deeply thoughtful and always a good listener. Never has there been a more honest or genuine person. She was 83. Sandy served as a highly respected professor of biology at Cazenovia College, where she inspired generations of students with her passion for the natural world. Her enthusiasm for science was infectious. This curiosity and enthusiasm led her to a PhD at the College of Environmental Science and Forestry by studying the sex lives of mites. After 36 years sharing this passion, she retired in 2004 and remained a valuable member of the college community. Sandy’s boundless curiosity was matched only by her physical endurance and love for adventure. Alongside her devoted husband, Jeff, she embarked on legendary cycling adventures. The couple explored Europe, New Zealand, Canada and every one of the United States except for Hawaii – traveling together by bike until they were nearly 80 years old. These journeys were a testament to her adventurous heart, active lifestyle and special bond with her husband. Sandy is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Jeff Palmer, of Cazenovia. She leaves behind two daughters, Amy Palmer of Tenants Harbor, ME, and Katrina Palmer of Vilas, NC, as well as three grandchildren. In addition, she leaves a sister, Laurie Coventry of Shedd, OR and three brothers: Larry Coventry of Fairfield, CT, Doug Coventry of Littleton, CO and Duke Coventry of New Bern, NC. A celebration of life will be held for Sandy in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Sandy’s name to Hospice of Central New York and of the Finger Lakes, 990 Seventh North St., Liverpool, NY 13088, Caz Cares, 101 Nelson St., Cazenovia, NY 13035 or to the Alzheimer’s Association Central New York Chapter, 5015 Campuswood Dr., Suite 102, East Syracuse, NY 13057. Condolences for Sandy’s family may be left at michaelebrownfuneralservices.com. ...read more read less