Richard Palmer was named Pastor Emeritus of Reach Church in 2020 after serving as pastor of bible education and life groups for ten years. Previous to entering into his time in vocational ministry, Richard served nearly forty years in public and private higher education, most recently at the University of Texas, El Paso and Dana College, Blair Nebraska.

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Dr. Palmer holds a Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Education from Wayne State College, a Master's of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts from University of Illinois, Champaign/Urbana. Among his many accomplishments and accolades include being a 5-time recipient of Who's Who of America's Teachers. In addition to his musical background, Richard is known for his brilliance in systematic theology and biblical literacy.

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Richard and his wife of 50+ years, Leslie, have one adult daughter, son-in-law, and grandson. In his free-time, he enjoys spending time with his family, reading, traveling, and sharing with others in individual and groups discipleship, walking alongside others as they grow deeper in their knowledge, better in their understanding, and more intentional in their Christian-living.