Donald Turner

Donald Richard Turner, a beloved father, grandfather and husband, passed away peacefully in his sleep on November 23, 2018, following an intimate Thanksgiving with his family in Charlotte, NC.  Born in Newark, Ohio on December 13, 1934, Donald touched many lives throughout his lifetime.  All whom crossed his path will cherish his love of exploration, and of people.   Donald charted an impressive career pathway that included serving in the US Army to becoming the first African American to earn management status at Rockwell International, a major American manufacturing conglomerate, where he retired after 36 years.  Following retirement, Donald involved himself at The Afro-American Cultural Center in Charlotte, NC, where he was recognized as the “voice” of the historical arts institution due to his superior phone etiquette.   Donald was a voracious reader, a passionate storyteller, a lover of art and a music-enthusiast; often grooving to the sounds of Louis Armstrong, Nat King Cole and Donnie Hathaway.  A sports fanatic, Donald spent many years coaching Kiwanis Little League Baseball and cheering on the Newark Wildcats, the Carolina Panthers, as well as Thee Ohio State Buckeyes. He is most proud of the fact that he attended every game of the Newark High School Women’s Basketball Team between the years 1978– 1981, serving as the ultimate fan of the team.   Donald, while accomplished in many facets of his life, considered his family to be the most coveted reward.  Rarely a day went by when Donald resisted sharing stories and photos relating to the achievements of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  His love and affection for his family was unwavering; they were the absolute joys of his life.   Donald is preceded in death by his mother Myrtle Carr and brother James Turner.  He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years Frances A. Turner, and his children, Deborah Turner, Pamela Turner, Mark Turner and Leslie Turner Edwards.  Also remaining are his beloved grandchildren Anthony Quentin Turner, Rishonda Turner Hill (Larry Hill Sr.), Maya Edwards and Jonah Edwards as well as his great-grandchildren, Larry Hill Jr., A’laryiah Hill and Anthony Quentin Turner II.   Donald R. Turner leaves behind an honorable legacy of love and concern of humanity to carry on by those whom he influenced.  The family will celebrate the magnificent life of Donald in a private ceremony during the Christmas holiday; a period which he declared as “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!”