James Van Lee Turner

James Van Lee Turner, 87, of Columbus, entered into his eternal home at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 19, 2022.

Jim was born October 16, 1934 in Glasgow, Kentucky, the son of James R. and Velma Lee Turner. On September 15, 1956, he married Helen I. Gribbons.

Jim joined the Untied States Army in 1953 and spent 18 months serving in the Korean war. He was honorably discharged as a corporal in March of 1955. Mr. Turner worked at many jobs throughout his life – from farm hand to manager of maintenance of Atterbury Job Corp where he retired after 25 years of service. He was a deacon and long time member of the United Church of God. In his younger years, James enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, woodworking, carpentry, NASCAR, and reading the bible. He was an avid bird lover and loved his dogs. Jim, not only, cherished the time spent with his family but also enjoyed the time spent with his church family.

Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Helen; children, Timothy J. (Cyndi) Turner, Daniel Lee (Debbie) Turner, Vanieca (Mike) Pendleton, Bion Turner; twelve grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; brother, Bill (Doris) Peart of Texas; half-brother, John (Lisa) Hoskinson; half-sister, Geneva Daily; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Mary Parker; half-brother, Charles Hoskinson; half-sister, Linda Gates; granddaughter, Michelle Turner; great-grandson, Gabriel Michael Sousa and daughter-in-law, Angie Turner.

The funeral service was held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at Barkes, Weaver &Glick Funeral Home on Washington Street with Pastor Joshua Creech officiating. Visitation occurred on Tuesday from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.

Jim was laid to rest at New Harmony Cemetery. Military honors were presented by the Bartholomew County Veterans Honor Guard.