Frank Palmer Kimber, 76, of Hartford, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 14, 2025.
Frank, affectionately known as by his peers, was born in Apopka, FL, son of the late Frank Kimber, Sr., and Emma Frances (Ragins) Palmer, graduated from Weaver High School, and attended Columbia Basin College in Pasco, WA.
His journey with football did not end with college. Driven by a deep passion for the game, he continued to play well beyond college, proving that football was never just a season in his life, but a lasting part of who he was. Frank was employed as a Heavy Equipment Operator for the Town of West Hartford and retired after more than 25 years of service.
Frank was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, partner, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. His deep love for his family created a sense of warmth and connection that will be cherished by all who knew him.
As an athlete at heart, he loved everything about sports, from playing the game to coaching, and he especially cherished the time spent playing football with his sons, creating lasting memories. Frank was just as passionate about softball, and he played for 25 years in the Miller High Life softball league at Waverly Park for the Twins and was a fierce competitor in the outfield. He was also known to always wear the #9 on his jerseys.
Frank was a lifelong and devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan. Whether it was game day or memorable plays, his enthusiasm was endless, and his passion for black and yellow was impossible to miss. Win or lose, the Steelers always had his heart.
Frank leaves to celebrate his life, his children, Kristy Hampton of Tacoma, WA, Zachery Kimber and his wife Erika of Hartford, Lamar Kimber of Hartford, and Jordan Lewis of Springfield, MA; his grandchildren, Korie Hampton, Jaiyah Kimber, Heavyn Kimber, Za’Kyi Kimber, Ariana Kimber, Lamar Kimber, Jr., Honesty Kimber, Nahvae Kimber, and Jhene Kimber; his great grandson, Koa; siblings, Ruth “Connie” Kimber Gaines, Edgar Bernard Palmer and his wife Bonnie, Gregory D. Palmer, Sr., Kimberly Palmer Davis, and Anthony B. Palmer and his wife Cheryl; and his partner, Gail Brown-Delaine; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his son, Frank Lamont Kimber; siblings, Jacquelyn Kimber, Robin Palmer, Jeffery W. Palmer, Clitus “Chucky” Palmer, Jr., Spring Palmer, and Terry Kimber.
His family will receive friends on Tuesday, December 30, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., with a Celebration of Life at 12 p.m. at The Lodge Community Chapel, 130 Deerfield Rd., Windsor.
Burial will be private.