Elaine F. Palko lived a long and happy life, passing on May 23, 2022. She lived on her own, in enviable health until just after her 95th birthday. She resided at Anthem Lakes for the past 7 months.

Born to Harry and Betty Fox, Elaine was raised in Massachusetts. She was educated at the College of William and Mary and was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority. While in college Elaine met Bernard Palko who was a Navy sailor stationed nearby. After marrying, they eventually moved to Gainesville. When Bernie graduated from UF and became a CPA, they settled in Jacksonville. Elaine often said living here for more than 70 years qualified her as a native. She was active in Cub Scouts, Girls Scouts, PTA and Garden Club. She volunteered at Hope Haven Children's Hospital and in later years made fleece blankets for Wolfson's Children's Hospital as part of the Portside Seniors Group. Elaine was a well known florist at the beaches, working at A David, A Bouquet By MaryAnn, James Burns, SeaCastle and Yours Truly. She proudly owned her own shop, Floriade, before retiring. Elaine was known for her high style designs and artistic talent. She helped countless brides and people celebrating special occasions. But she also loved selling a single flower to a sailor and making yellow ribbons for Navy wives.

Elaine loved nature, especially the beach, her garden and feeding the birds. All the family dogs adored her, drawn to her gentleness. Elaine was intellectually curious, an avid reader and art lover. But mostly she adored her family. She was predeceased by her two sons, Tom and Peter, and one grandson. Left to cherish her memory are her daughters and sons--in-law: Beth and Frank Smith, Laura and Jim Schendel, Carolyn and Jeff Stone, along with 7 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
The kindness Elaine showed others her whole life came back to her at the end. She truly appreciated the caregivers at Anthem Lakes and Mayo Clinic. The family thanks Community Hospice's McGraw Center for their compassion. A private service was held, but those who knew her are encouraged to share memories on the digital guestbook.