Johnny A. Turner

Johnny A. Turner, age 85 of Quitman, passed away on Sunday, February 28, 2016 at his home. Johnny was born on February 13, 1931, one of nine children born to his proud parents, Lawrence and Julia Currey Turner. He is preceded in death by his parents; siblings, L.J., Lona Mae, Jack Day, Joy Fay, Nyla Ray, Mona Kay, and daughter, Karla J. Gharst. He is survived by his loving wife Annie Marie Turner of Quitman; siblings, Norma Gay of Longview, Tillman Clay of Winnsboro; son, James David Engle and wife Cindy of Quitman, estranged sons, John Lawrence Gorman and Johnny Rickey Turner; three grandchildren, Jennifer J. Gharst, Devin C. Engle, Casey J. Turner; one great-granddaughter, Cheyenne R. Crutsinger. Johnny has many nieces and nephews and other family members as well. He was a father figure to many. Johnny completed high school in Winnsboro; he later served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After his service, he became a tractor mechanic; he also enjoyed a brief career as a truck driver, until a devastating accident changed the path of his life. He married Marie in Quitman in 1973, he painted "Air Force One" planes at E-Systems in Greenville for many years. Johnny and his wife were the owners of Chaparral Trucking and during that time worked as contract pumpers in the oil field. He was also a long time member of Walnut Street Baptist Church. Johnny enjoyed country dancing and music, playing dominoes and his dogs. His favorite passion was his huge and abundant gardens. Johnny will be greatly missed, he was a wonderful and loving husband, father, and friend to all. His time here on earth while short was full of love, life, and meaning.