Major Turner

Major S. Turner, 89, of Monroe, MI passed away and went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, January 19, 2011 in the Lutheran Home. Born February 13, 1921 in Claiborne County, TN, Major was the son of the late John Arch and Flora Ella (Cheek) Turner. Major attended elementary school in Claiborne County and was a 1938 graduate of Claiborne County High School. On October 19, 1940 in Middlesboro, KY Major married his beloved wife the former Opal L. Whitaker. In 2010 they celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. Major served our country honorably and proudly during WWII. He was inducted into the US Navy April 29, 1944. Major was stationed in the Philippines and was honorably discharged on January 28, 1946. For his heroism he was awarded; The Asiatic-Pacific Area Service Ribbon, Philippine Liberation Ribbon and the WWII Victory Medal. Major owned and operated Major’s Service in Monroe. He also worked as a mechanic for Pinkham Ford, Savage Store Buick, Kelsey Hayes, Quality Motors and Friendly Ford. Major was a member of First Baptist Church in Monroe and the “Weakenders” RV Club. He enjoyed restoring cars and camping. Major worked tirelessly to support his family and in turn his family brought him much joy. Major is survived by his beloved wife Opal, 6 loving children; Douglas R. (Arlene) Turner of Brighton, MI, Rebekah C. (John) Odinga of Traverse City, MI, John S. (Patricia) Turner of Monroe, Nancy E. (Kenneth) Briggs of Napa, CA, Lisa T. (Mike) Kwiecinski of Dearborn Heights, MI, and Scott A. (Penny) Turner of Monroe, 11 loving grandchildren, 7 cherished great grandchildren and 1 brother AG Turner of Monroe. In addition to his parents Major was preceded in death by 1 infant son; Larry L. Turner, 1 brother; General Turner and 1 sister; Ruth Jessee. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1-8 PM in the Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd., in Monroe where services celebrating his life will be held on Monday, January 24, 2011 at 11:00 AM. The Rev. Kenneth Dunn will officiate. He will then be taken to Riverview Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery, Powell River Road, Harrogate, TN 37752, where graveside services will be held on Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at 2:00 PM. Memorial contributions are suggested to First Baptist Church 1602 N. Custer Rd. Monroe, MI 48162