SMSGT (ret) Joseph (Joe) William Turner, 80, formerly of Dover, currently of Bear, DE passed peacefully on May 24th 2017 at Compassionate Care Hospice – St. Francis Hospital in Wilmington, DE. Joe was born in Memphis, TN to the late Walter W. Turner and Minnie Maude Turner (nee Kennedy). He graduated from Delgado High School in New Orleans, LA and completed his education at Delaware State University with a BA in Art Education. Joe married Maryann Purcell in 1959 and they went on to have 8 children.
He proudly served his country for 22 years in the US Air Force concluding his service in 1977 at Travis AFB CA. He had been a long time member of Holy Cross Catholic Church in Dover and had served in the Knights of Columbus Council 4182. Besides his parents he was predeceased by sisters, Eloise and Jean.
Joe is survived by his children – Joseph Turner II (Tracy), Jacksonville, FL – Bruce Turner, Fredericam DE – Tammi Bulovas (Jerry), Pensacola, FL – Derek Turner, Bear, DE – Keith Turner (Toni), Williamsbur, VA – Kevin Turner (Donna), Felton, DE – Marci Pence (Richard), Ft Myers, FL – Sean (Mia), Boca Raton, FL.
He is also survived by his brother, Thomas Turner (Suelin) , Columbus, OH along with 13 grandchildren,
numerous nieces, nephews and lastly, his dog and constant companion Chelsea. For those wishing to send flowers please send to Cornerstone Methodist Church 3135 Summit Bridge Rd, Bear, DE 19701
where Services will be held at 11 am on Thursday, June 1, 2017. A Visitation will take place at the Church starting at 10 am. Burial with Full Military Honors will follow at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery – 2465 Chesapeake City Rd, Bear, DE 19701 at 1 pm. The Turner family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to Compassionate Care Hospice – St. Francis Hospital, Mr. Charles (Chuck) Eachus.
If you prefer to make a financial gift in Joe’s name please forward to the Delaware Humane Society 701 A St, Wilmington, DE 19801.
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