Phyllis Palmer
(1911 - 1926)

Phyllis Palmer b: 1911 in Poplar, was the daughter of John and Matilda Palmer - J & H's great-aunt. Phyllis was introduced to the family of James Ramsey MacDonald by her brother who had worked with the PM at Downing St. She was taken on as a maid / companion to the MacDonald's young daughter Sheila, and became close to the family.
Whilst on holiday with the family in Lossiemouth, Scotland in 1926. Despite the efforts of other swimmers and several doctors who were playing golf at a nearby course, Phyllis died following a swimming accident on Stotfield beach close to the MacDonald's home. She was buried beside the MacDonald's family plot a few miles from the home.