Charles Wayne Turner

In Loving Memory of Charles Wayne Turner

 On September 20, 2023, the world lost a genuine Texan with a heart as big as the Lone Star State. Charles Wayne Turner, born in Hainesville, Texas on March 2, 1935, to East Texas farmers Gordon Tatum and Katie Alma Carrington Turner, was a man of grit and a touch of country charm. He made his journey from Hainesville to Pine Mills at the tender age of 2, accompanied by two sisters and a brother, whom he has now rejoined in the heavens.

 But if there's one thing that defined Charles's remarkable journey, it was his enduring devotion to his beloved wife, Beverly Jayne Turner.

Their union began in 1956 and was a testament to love that lasted over six decades, marked by countless moments of shared laughter and cherished memories. They traveled the world together and lived in many different states including, Hawaii, California, Washington, Wyoming, and Arizona.

Their love story gave life to a beautiful family that includes their eldest daughter, Dana LeAnne Turner Burns, and their sons, Charles Tracy Turner, Blake Adam Turner, and Joshua Andrew Turner. Charles's role as a father extended far beyond fatherhood; he was a guiding force, a constant presence, and a wellspring of support and encouragement in the lives of his children. In the journey of life, Charles also played a vital role in raising his grandchildren, Jenna Quinter and Blake Simmons, shaping them into the wonderful individuals they are today. His legacy reaches even further to include six more amazing grandchildren - Ashley, Colton, Zane, Blake, Chase, and Kate Turner, not to mention his five great-grandchildren, who all carry a piece of his spirit with them.

 With striking blue eyes and a spirit as vast as the Texas sky, Charles had a knack for imparting his wisdom with a dash of humor and grit. His life was guided by his motto: "Think tall, walk tall, be tall!" “Stand tall, keep your feet on the ground, and your head in the sky.” He often reminded us to "keep reaching for the big, blue marble" and held firm to the belief that “when the going gets tough, the tough get going."

In his early elementary years, Charles and his brother, Kenneth, were affectionately known as the "country boys" because they could always be spotted in their trusty overalls, even in school. Their educational journey began at the original Hawkins school before it moved to its new location.

One of Charlie’s most interesting stories was about the day he crossed paths with none other than The King of Rock & Roll, Mr. Elvis Presley. The legendary singer graced their high school with a performance when he wasn’t that famous yet… Charles loved to recount the tale of how Elvis himself asked him to introduce him to the local girls, creating a memory that would forever be etched in his heart. He said, “his music wasn’t that appreciated from the older folks and Elvis was told by the school not to come play again on the account of being too risqué. He would always laugh after sharing his memory.

Later at the age of 18, a-turning point in Charles's life came when his family's fortunes changed, his family struck oil. They purchased a fine car for Charlie and sent him off to university, paving the way for an extraordinary journey filled with opportunities and experiences.

In a testament to his determination to succeed, Charles earned his bachelor's degree in just two years from Texas A&M Commerce. Following his education, he met and married Beverly in Irving, Texas. He then served his country honorably in the United States Army, stationed in the picturesque land of Hawaii where they welcomed their first child.

Later in life, he embarked on a successful career as a general manager for Kmart stores, touching lives across the United States.

Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle, Charles never lost his touch of country whimsy. He serenaded us with spontaneous songs about the birds, the bees, and even the squirrels on the logs, adding an extra layer of love and happiness to our lives.

After a lifetime of hard work and building a life in Arizona. Charles found his well-deserved retirement in the heart of East Texas, where he reveled in the beauty of a picturesque peach orchard. Surrounded by ducks, chickens, albino catfish, two goats that were named Hottie and Honey, Scottish highlander cattle with a bull named Cyrus, many beloved dogs, and cats...he embraced the simple joys of country living.

In his later years, his motto transitioned to "remain calm, cool, collected," representing the three 'C's that guided him through life. But it wasn't just his family that he cherished.

Charles's legacy also includes over 12 years of volunteering at UT North Hospital's Riter Center. He helped patients and their families, bringing smiles to their faces with every act of kindness. He loved every moment spent in the service of others, and his pride in this accomplishment shone brightly.

Charles cherished his church at Holly Tree in Holly Lake Ranch, as well as his family church of Mount Pisgah. He wished for his loved ones to gather and celebrate his life, adorning themselves in bright colors to reflect his vibrant spirit. And we mustn't forget that Charles was the biggest and most loyal fan of the Dallas Cowboys, a passion that ran deep in his veins. As we gather to remember him, let us hold close his kindness, his unwavering strength, and the boundless love he shared with his family.

Charles leaves a void that can never be filled, but his memory will forever be etched in our hearts.

He often shared a simple yet profound wish, "Have a beautiful day," leaving a trail of positivity and kindness in his wake. This heartfelt sentiment was a testament to his unwavering optimism and love for spreading joy to others.

Remember, It's a Beautiful Day!

Rest in peace, dear Charlie/Dad/Papa, and may your spirit find eternal peace among the Dallas Cowboy Stars!

The viewing will be held at 10:00 am, and the funeral is scheduled for Wednesday, September 27, 2023, in the morning at 11:00 am at Holley Tree Bible Church in Holly Lake. Following the funeral, a burial ceremony will take place at Mount Pisgah, with a gathering for food to follow