James Donald Turner

James Donald Turner, known as “Jim” to most; “Jimmy” to the Hurley and Chewalla community; “Dad”, “Papaw” and “Uncle Jim” to family; passed away peacefully Tuesday night, August 26th, with family at his side.

Jim was born October 21st 1939 in Corinth, Mississippi to Holly and Essie Turner, the first of four children. He lived in multiple areas as a child including Corinth MS, Memphis TN, Oak Ridge TN, and the Chewalla, Hurley, and Ramer communities of McNairy County. After graduating from Ramer High School in 1958, he joined the Tennessee National Guard. He continued his education, graduating from Keegan’s School for Electronics, and acquired an Associate Degree in Art from Freed-Hardeman College as well as Bachelor of Arts in Business from Memphis State University.

While attending Freed-Hardeman, Jim met the love of his life, Judith (Judy) Lee Forsyth, and they were married March 24th 1962. They started their family shortly thereafter and raised three sons: Don, Tim and Tom.

Jim enjoyed a variety of occupations in his lifetime. After high school, he worked as an electronics technician and bulldozer/backhoe operator. He drove a Wonder Bread delivery truck while he and Judy attended Memphis State. He was employed by Sears and was promoted to Regional Manager during their time in Humboldt TN. When the family returned to Selmer, he held the position of Wal-Mart Merchandise Manager. He continued in this position until he started his own business performing backhoe and bulldozer services while also living as a “gentleman farmer”, as he liked to say.

Jims first love was the LORD. He served as a deacon at the East End Church of Christ in Humboldt TN and served as an elder at the Fourth Street Church of Christ in Selmer TN for 40 years. He gave many nights and weekends to the work of the LORD. He was a kind man, a simple man, and a just man. He loved his church family as much as his physical family. He demonstrated his love through his deeds, whether a kind word, warm smile, or a hug when needed. Often, he might simply see a job that needed to be done, do it, usually while the persons were away, and then be on his way. He never looked for praise or glory; just the opportunity to help someone in need.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Holly Obed and Essie Cora (King) Turner. Jim is survived by his wife of 63 years, Judy Turner of Selmer; sons Donald Turner (Tish) of Eads TN, Timothy Turner (Heather) of Madison AL, and Thomas Turner (Andria) of Madison AL; grandchildren, James R. Turner of Fayetteville AR, Allen Turner of Madison AL, Seth Turner (Jenna) of Bartlett TN, and Sara Turner of Auburn AL; two great-grandchildren; Ellis and Finley. He is also survived by sisters, Sandra Johnson (Robert) of Columbia TN, Evelyn Kowen (Kenneth) of Bolivar TN, and Sharon Privett (Jon) of Piedmont MO. In addition to the immediate family, Jim will be deeply missed by nephew Darren (Wendy) Bowers of Selmer and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fourth Street church of Christ at give.tithe.ly