Willie James Turner

Where do we start? Sergeant First Class Willie James Turner wasn’t just a soldier, brother, husband, or friend. He was a true servant of God who lived out the word of God daily. Mr. Turner’s mission was to introduce everyone he met to God, so they would be given an opportunity to accept Him as their personal Lord and Savior. He was hardworking, compassionate, and a teacher who strived to help everyone he met. He taught people in the community how to read by using the Bible. He provided transportation for the community and customized a van to ensure it was ADA-compliant for disabled congregants to attend appointments and worship services. His wisdom, penned writings, and acts of kindness have touched many people. Mr. Turner never met a stranger and exhibited love even during difficult times. Those who knew Mr. Turner understand that we lost a great man. He was born November 11, 1946, in Montgomery, Alabama, to the late Rudolph and Sallie Blandon Turner. He was a 1964 George Washington Carver High School graduate in Montgomery, Alabama. In 1984, Willie James Turner graduated from Perimeter College with a bachelor’s in business management and finance. He served twelve years in the United States Army. He was a Vietnam Veteran, and he was involved in several church and civic organizations. He was highly educated and believed that the key to success was accepting Christ, serving others, and education. For forty-one beautiful years, he was married to the love of his life, this soul-mate whom he affectionately called “My Trudy,” the late Gertrud Speth Turner. Even after her transition, he penned love letters to her, expressing his excitement to reunite with her again. Those left to cherish fond memories of Willie James Turner are his siblings, Josephine Gun, Alfonso Turner, Ray Turner, John Turner, Betty McGee, JoAnn Grant, and Debra Turner. His best friends, Mr. & Mrs. Cecil and Hannah Day, and their two children. He had a host of nieces, nephews, and friends that he loved. When asked, “How would you like people to remember you?” He stated, “A man that loved Christ and lived an honorable life. The man that loved my wife, My Trudy, with all my heart and soul. Also, a man who believed if you could help someone do it, you should never look for anything in return.” Mr. Turner said that if you remember nothing about him, always read and live out the Word of God. You can have all the earthly riches, but to die and lose your soul is not worth the money. As we remember the memories from SFC Willie James Turner, let us be encouraged to live out his favorite scriptures, Psalms 121 and Matthew 5:2-12. SFC Turner’s final prayer was that he wanted to hear the voice of His God say, “Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’” Matthew 25:23 NLT

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Willie James Turner

November 11, 1949 - March 9, 2023