Willard Franklin Turner

  Willard Franklin Turner, 81, passed away at his home on October 30, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife and family. Born on January 7, 1943, and raised on his family farm along Red Lick Road in Berea, Willard grew up with a profound love for the land and the values of hard work. His Christian faith was of utmost importance to him, and he was a devoted member of the Red Lick Holiness Church, where he found strength, purpose, and community throughout his life.

  Willard dedicated 22 years to Berea College before his retirement, yet his passion for farming never waned. He worked the land his entire life, raising tobacco and planting beautiful gardens each year—right up to his final season. A skilled carpenter, Willard built and remodeled many homes throughout his life, leaving behind a legacy of craftsmanship and care. After retiring, he also ran his own business, Turner Painting, where he continued to serve his community with pride and dedication.

  There are no words to truly describe what a wonderful person he was. Many have said he exemplified the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This is perhaps the truest way to describe how he lived his life. His children grew up understanding the true love of God because their earthly father was such a powerful example of love. Willard was a man of immense humor, wisdom, and integrity whose kindness, compassion, and faithfulness touched everyone he met. In the summertime, you could find him sitting on the front porch swing, visiting with family, friends, and neighbors, sharing laughter, stories, and his boundless kindness.

  Willard took tremendous pride in his work, yet his family was his greatest treasure. He shared 63 devoted years with his beloved wife, Shirley Centers Turner, and together they raised five children: Regina (Randall) Conn, Chris Turner, Sonya (Jerel) Middletown, Jeff Turner, and Teri Harris. Willard was a proud grandfather to thirteen grandchildren, Mandy Singer, Leah Campbell, Tyler Conn, Sean Lamb, Jonathan Lamb, Austin Teabo, Matthew Turner, Corey Turner, Courtney Turner, Katie Combs, Macey Harris, Nick (Ericka) Middleton, and Logan (Sarah) Middleton. He was also a great-grandfather to sixteen great-grandchildren. His legacy of faith, love, humor, wisdom, and compassion will live on in his family and all who knew him.

  Willard was preceded in death by his parents, Macie and Chester Turner, his sisters, Jeanice (Neecie) Cook, Carolyn Turner, and Helen Minnick. He is survived by his sisters, Mary Sparks, Janet (Mike) Grismer and Sandy (David) Luster.

  Funeral Services were conducted on Monday, November 4, 2024, at Red Lick Holiness Church. Bro. Ermon Turner, Bro. Mark Sarver and Bro. Larry Gray officiated. Burial followed in Mallory Springs Cemetery. 

  Pallbearers were his grandsons: Sean Lamb, Jonathan Lamb, Corey Turner, Tyler Conn, Matthew Turner, and Austin Teabo. Honorary pallbearers include Dylan & Katie Combs, Leah and Brandon Campbell, Nick (Ericka) Middleton, Logan (Sarah) Middleton, Mandy Singer, Macey Harris and Courtney Turner.

  In Lieu of flowers contributions suggested to Red Lick Volunteer Fire Department or Red Lick Holiness Church. 

Reppert Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements.