Obituary for Joseph J. Turner, Jr.
Joseph K. Turner, Jr.” Granddaddy” 89, passed away on Friday March 11, 2022. Born in Clearwater, Florida at Morton Plant Hospital, he was a part of the pioneer Turner family that settled in Clearwater in the 1850’s.
He graduated from Clearwater High School in 1950. He joined the Marine Corps and was an expert rifleman. He was awarded 4 battle stars on his Korean Service Ribbon, and a Presidential Unit Citation for action against the enemy in Korea. After the war Joe returned home and worked at Turner Printing Company, a family business started by his father, former Clearwater Mayor, Joseph K. Turner Sr. in 1933.
He was a member of First United Methodist Church, Clearwater, a Charter Member of Springtime City Kiwanis, longtime member of Turner-Brandon American Legion Post 7 the Marine Corps League, Detachment 54, Largo.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 63 years Joan.
He is survived by sons Mark J. Turner of Dunedin, Michael W. Turner and his wife Donna of Seminole, and Charles E. Turner of Clearwater. Daughters in Law: Lori Chestnut of Bainbridge, GA and Michelle DiPolito of Clearwater. His grandchildren (12): Jason and Jen, Bryan and his wife Richelle, Amber and her husband Scott, Mark Jr. and Sara, Kevin and his wife Nichole, Nathan, Kyle and his wife Courtney, and Jessica. Great-grandchildren (8): Mikaela, Alex, Aimee, Taylor, Austin, Lillie, Ava, and Remi.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Clearwater Historical Society, First United Methodist Church of Clearwater, or Springtime City Kiwanis.
Memorial Service to be held Friday March 18, 2022, at 1 PM at First United Methodist Church of Clearwater, 411 Turner Street with reception following. Rev. Matt Wallis will be officiating. Arrangements have been entrusted to Veterans Funeral Care, 830 N. Belcher Rd. Clearwater, Florida 33765.
