It is with extreme sadness that we heard of the passing of our friend, colleague and former Prior of the Priory in the USA, Palmer Hamilton KStJ, following sudden illness.

Palmer was made a Knight of our Order and Prior in 2014. He was leading the Priory with great distinction until 2020. Palmer was also a passionate supporter for the international side of our Order, especially for the St John Eye Hospital in Jerusalem, their staff and patients, and for many years, he was actively involved in the international Order governance. Throughout his service for our Order, he enjoyed traveling the world and making new friends wherever he went.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Palmer, Amy and their family and loved ones – including his St John Family. Palmer was a close friend and colleague to many of us and will be terribly missed by us all.”

Prof Mark Compton, Lord Prior

Palmer was head of the Washington, D.C. law office of Jones Walker and as a partner in the firm's Governmental Relations Practice Group. While practicing law, he was also a regular newspaper columnist, and he served on a variety of federal, state, local and volunteer boards.

On behalf of the Order and all Members, we offer our sincerest condolences to Amy and their extended family. We send our love and support in this time of grief.

May Palmer rest in peace and rise in glory.

26 October 2021