Beloved Community Spotlight

For Mike Palombo, some of life's greatest blessings came when he least expected them.

One of those surprises happened at his own surprise 60th birthday party, where he met Donna Laney. They reconnected the very next day over a glass of wine, getting to know each other after Mike had called it an early night following the party. One of their first dates was dinner at Bonefish Grill and the friendship quickly grew into something much more. They later married in New Orleans and recently celebrated four years together.

Both Mike and Donna understand the value of second chances. Donna had been divorced for 13 years, while Mike had been married for 35 years before losing his wife to cancer. Their shared experiences have given them a deep appreciation for each day they have together.

Today they live in the Runnymede townhouses in Baton Rouge with Lucy, their spirited Boston Terrier. Lucy was a gift from Mike's daughter, and named by Mike’s grandson. Mike has lived in Runnymede for eight years, following a year living in Mandeville.

Mike grew up in Sulphur, attended McNeese State University before finishing his education at Northeast Louisiana University, and enjoyed two very different careers. For many years he worked as an athletic trainer—the person sprinting onto the field whenever an athlete was injured, assessing what happened and helping determine the next steps.

In 2003, he began a new career as an ultrasound technologist, specializing in vascular studies that examine veins and arteries for signs of disease. Donna happened to share the same profession, although her specialty was usually much happier as she performed ultrasounds for expectant mothers and their babies. Mike jokes that he "did old people while she did babies."

The couple has been attending St. Margaret's for the past three to four years. Donna had previously attended church when Fr. Tommy was serving in Central and asked Mike if he would like to visit St. Margaret's. His answer was an easy “yes.” Having grown up in the Episcopal Church at Holy Trinity in Sulphur, returning to an Episcopal parish felt like coming home. Along the way, Mike also worshipped at Calvary Baptist Church while living in Alexandria, an experience he also values.

What Mike appreciates most about St. Margaret's is simple: "I feel at home. I feel loved." He is especially grateful for the genuine friendliness of the congregation and says being part of the parish has helped him become even more caring and giving. He's also enjoyed spending more time in Scripture, particularly through the church's Day by Day devotional.

Mike and Donna have quite a few things in common including—they’re both left-handed, both retired ultrasound technologists, and both enjoy a quieter pace of life. Whether they're watching television, spending time on the computer, cooking together, relaxing by the pool, or traveling, they're happiest simply enjoying each other's company.

A fun fact many may not know is that Mike has carried the nickname "Plum" ever since junior high. Friends continued using it through college and even into his first job, and today the nickname lives on as his grandson affectionately calls him "Plum."

When asked how he'd like to be remembered, Mike doesn't talk about careers or accomplishments. Instead, he hopes people will remember someone who was always smiling, polite, and loving to everyone he met.

If you haven't had the opportunity to visit with Mike, introduce yourself after a service. Whether you know him as Mike or "Plum," you'll quickly discover the warm smile and welcoming spirit that now helps make St. Margaret's feel like home for others.