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Obituary For Mr. Jeffery A. Turner
Mr. Jeffery A. Turner, a resident of Pendergrass, GA, died Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at Hospice of Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Gainesville, GA.
Funeral Services are scheduled for Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. (EST) from Davis Memorial Mortuary Chapel, 305 W. F. Burns Drive, Valley, AL 36854 with Pastor Cecelia Broome as Eulogist.
Interment will follow in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Valley, AL. Davis Memorial Mortuary directing.
Public Viewing is scheduled for Friday, March 31, 2023 from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. (EST) at Davis Memorial Mortuary Chapel.
Jeffery Anthony Turner was born to the late Jake Turner Jr. and Gloria Curry Turner on May 26, 1972 in Cleveland, Ohio. Named after his great-grandfather, Jeffery was the youngest of three children in his family of origin. He was the grandson of the late Jake Turner, Sr. and Gladys Turner. During his school-age years, Jeffery was a well-rounded student. He worked hard at academic achievement while participating in an array of athletic activities, including baseball, wrestling, track and football—the sport where he earned his nickname, “Terminator Ted.”
Once the school year and athletics ended, Jeffery looked forward to summer vacation, which meant family trips to Alabama, Disney World, Daytona Beach, Niagara Falls and amusement parks, such as Cedar Point, Kings Island and Geauga Lake. During the slower pace of summer, Jeffery spent endless hours with neighborhood friends, riding bikes, playing video games or throwing footballs.
Jake and Gloria Turner instilled in their children the importance of education and a strong work ethic. Jeffery attended Orange High School where he was introduced to the late Mr. William Brown and Mr. Dale Kelly—educators/mentors who had a profound impact on Jeffery’s educational trajectory and personal development. A solid academic record and versatile extracurricular activities in high school paved the way for Jeffery’s admission to Morehouse College where he studied English language and, ultimately, earned a bachelor’s degree. Years later, Jeffery attended Duke University to earn paralegal certification.
While Jeffery was proud to be a “Morehouse Man,” his most significant accomplishment resulted from his union with Octavia Curry: his two sons, Mujahid and Jawad Turner. Being a father was most important to Jeffery. He was a hands-on dad who shaped his sons into intelligent, productive, good-natured young men. He was a stern parent, yet he displayed an over-the-top sense of humor. Jeffery shared his love of motorcycling with his sons. Together, they traveled the open road on their bikes. Jeffery cherished “Gloria,” his Indian-brand motorcycle purchased in 2021. When he motorcycled throughout Georgia and neighboring states, he experienced peace and contentment and never met a stranger. He was recently gearing up for his longest ride ever—Atlanta, Georgia to Columbus, Ohio—to take place during spring break in April.
Jeffery taught English/language arts in schools throughout North Carolina, Texas, and Georgia. He was a consummate educator who impacted students in much the same way he was impacted by his teacher mentors. Students have described Jeffery as: “Teacher of the Year,” “a father figure,” and “the reason I came to school.” He nurtured students while being actively engaged in the teaching process. He seemed tireless as evidenced by his refusal to miss a single day of school and his belief that he would never retire but, instead, teach beyond age 90.
Seeking to be obedient and follow the Lord, Jeffery regularly attended the Church of God and Christ. He lived a Christ-centered life that reflected his values and convictions. Jeffery peacefully departed this life on March 22, 2023 in Gainesville, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jake and Gloria Turner. He leaves to cherish his loving memory: two sons, Mujahid and Jawad Turner; two sisters, Deborah Curry and Sonya Turner; an aunt, Emma Dora Broome; mentors, Dale Kelly and Cheryl Johnson, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, students, and colleagues.
Funeral Services by Davis Memorial Mortuary of Valley.
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Kristi A Talley sent Ocean Devotion for Mr. Jeffery A. Turner - April 01, 2023
My heart is so broken right now. Rest in paradise Jefferey. Until we meet again. Love always.... Kristi
Cheryl Johnson sent Peace & Serenity Dishgarden for Mr. Jeffery A. Turner - April 01, 2023
Praying for your strength and peace during this difficult time. May you find comfort in knowing God is with you. Cheryl Johnson
Syrretta Parinella sent Calming Comfort Bouquet for Mr. Jeffery A. Turner - March 31, 2023
Mr. Turner has meant so much to my daughter. His encouragement and enthusiasm in her writing has changed her life for the better. His loss is felt everyday and he will be forever missed.
Angela Woods sent Sunlit Memories Standing Spray for Mr. Jeffery A. Turner - March 30, 2023
You brought joy, happiness, and laughter to all who met you. You will be deeply missed by everyone at Garner Magnet High School! Rest in peace Turner.
Lily Surprise Flower Arrangement was sent for Mr. Jeffery A. Turner - March 29, 2023
Therese Turner sent The Schefflera Arboricola for Mr. Jeffery A. Turner - March 28, 2023
My condolences to the family of Mr. Jeff Turner. From Therese Turner & The Turner Family of Raleigh NC
I still remember when I came to school in my "published author" hoodie. He was so proud and I'll never forget it. Every time I go to write, I always remember how excited he was to see that email I sent.
It's been almost two years, I still remember getting the email maybe 2 hours after school 🕊️🕊️🕊️ Will always be in my memory
Mr.Turner, I googled your name hoping to possibly reconnect with my 6th grade teacher that left a lasting impression on me. You are the reason I fell in love with reading. In English class you would read aloud books like; Bud Not Buddy, Maniac McGee, Rikki-Tikki-Tavi and more. Books I've read to my children because of you! My most rememberable moment from your class was when you drew a question mark on the white board and ask the class what it was. They all answered "a question mark". Your response was "No the back of Travis' head" lol
Mr. Turner, I just found out about this website. Man I was heartbroken when I heard the news a year ago. You were a father figure to not only me, but all your students. I was just sitting here thinking about you recording my speech in class freshmen year of high school. I appreciate you and all your wisdom. Rest easy Mr. Turner. Much love to you.
Mujahid and Jawad, you both are in my prayers. I will always remember the good times. Blessings! Jackie Ellis Rocky Mount NC
Mann my dawg Mr Turner where do I start? My freshman year one and only black male English teacher . Remember when I came in class on crutches first day😂 U was assigning seats and was like how long u gonna be on crutches man. I can say it was actual cultural shock to have first black male teacher,someone who looks like me. I always enjoyed your classes bc ik we gonna get 3 things every time: crazy story,corny joke, and a good laugh 😂😂 I wish I could hear your laugh one more time. One thing for sure u learned in your class is ordinance and respect! U may cuss other teachers out but u def wasn't doing any of that with Mr Turner 😂‼️ Lol remember u always closing door soon as bell ring and talking junk to me for being minute late 😂 ima miss u randomly calling me out n class for example or when u thought I wasn't paying attention 😂 forgive me I don't recall the class name for senior year but I remember all of the great debates that u enjoyed sparking everyday! It meant a lot when you said u loved our class and looked forward to teach us everyday. Man U wouldn't believe it now but I dress up everyday for work looking just as sharp as u now lol. This memory been resonating with me this week, it was a normal day in senior year class and u were explaining how u felt tired and wanted to dress down but u couldn't because u knew the example and standard that u held for us to look up to. Taught us how to carry ourself as a black professional.Even explaining work behind the scenes fighting for us , u was so pure no check could ever pay u for all your efforts and hard work, But Thank You so much!! U always wanted the best for us and strived to push us to do better. Remember when you saw me in ISS and pulled me out 😂 u was literally passing by and caught a glimpse of me and stopped in your tracks and gave me the look 😂 I couldn't do nun but put my head down🤦🏾♂️😂 I always looked forward to seeing you I'm glad you got to see me graduate and pulled me aside from line and took pic with me, that was last time I seen you 😔💙I been so caught up with life tryna get everything together I wish you could see my progress how much I've grown and chop it up with u about everything man😔 lol aye I finally found passion in reading I have a whole book shelf now 🤣📚 I wish you recommend me your personal favs. Remember when you had to talk to me bc I was saying f high school 😂 my mom looked for u specifically to talk to me bc of your impact man. Then I finally got it together when I told u college acceptance. But yeah man I went got degree in business I'm going to produce numerous businesses. I also studied psychology man I'm a nerd now fr lol it's crazy right. U crushed me with this one tho my dawg I always expected u to grow old like the old man in the stories🤣🖤 u got me feeling like son from fences when he lost his pops Denzel. I could type for days man I had to face the courage to type this,still choked up dang near crying man. I love you old Man Jeffery, haha u would always attempt to snatch us up if we ever called you Jeffery 😂😂ima def miss you and your energy U was def to pure for the world but I feel your mission was complete. Your going to def live thru all of us! Do a nice big dance for me when u get up there 🙏🏾 To his sons: Mann he loved y'all so much and I mean nothing made him feel more important and prouder than being a father to y'all‼️He literally always talked about y'all everyday from fishing trips to telling y'all business about y'all girlfriends 😂🤣 My prayers and comfort are with y'all i pray u find ease and peace.🙏🏾💙 Sincerely, - Sean Ridley
Where do I begin, my first time meeting this gentle soul took place at McNair Middle School. If you're familiar with this school, you know only the strong survive. I truly believe God is very intentional with the people/ Angels that appear in your life. Little did I know it would be my English teacher. Mr. Turner was my first example of a father figure. He unknowingly saved me from being a product of my environment. It was an honor to be considered one of his favorite students. As my matriculation through middle school, he would always encourage me to attend college and always do the right thing. Because of his continued support through our the years, I am a first time graduate of Clark Atlanta University and a Lead Professional in Tech.
Mr. T, I could never say thank you enough. You've been a light to so many students in dark places. I'm truly devastated by your departure but I know God had other plans for you. It's just crazy I was preparing by wedding list and I have table dedicated to my most influential educators. Your name was listed first. However, I find peace in knowing our last conversation I was able to express my deepest gratitude.
I pray God continues to cover your boys in your absence. My heart and prayers is with the family in this time of need. Thank you both for sharing your father, his influence will live on through us all.
Mr. T , well done! Well done!! Love always, Nicole ( Ms.Foster)
Mr. Turner,
You have been a true inspiration in my life since I was 14 years old. Since then, you have had my back all the way to my college graduation and even now. God placed you in all the right places, for all the right reasons because you have inspired so many more people who you have taught. My ninth grade English teacher became family. I will continue to make you proud, I know you'll be watching over me with your hand on your hip and your finger pointed haha. May God Bless your sons in this time and the rest of your family.
-Love, Ayse' (your favorite student)
My heart continues to be so heavy, You were a great friend and a fantastic human being. To quote a popular song, Only Love can hurt like this, I am going to miss our conversations on facebook. On behalf of the Mays family Rest In Peace, Jeff.
I'm just so sorry to hear about Jeff. He was a good friend, very intelligent, always so helpful. He will definitely be missed.
Marlynn
