Walter D. Turner

Walter Doris Turner, age 91, passed away January 5, 2011. Turner or "Big Turner" as he was lovingly called by his great-grandchildren was born October 18, 1919 in Stewart County, TN, to the late Alma Irene Carpenter and Walter Harrell. Turner was a veteran of World War II serving as a flight instructor at Seward Air Force Base in Smyrna, TN. He received the American Theater Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal and Victory Medal in 1945. He owned and operated Turner & Osborne Tire in Columbia for 30 years. He was a Life Member of the Lions Club International and had a passion for motorcycles and automobiles. Turner had a gentle spirit and quiet demeanor and was a friend to many people. Above all else, he was always a gentleman.

Survivors include his daughter, Suzanne Turner Lewter of Nashville; Grandchildren: James Walter Johnson Julia of Nashville, Jennifer Johnson Perkins David of Nashville; Great-Grandchildren: Margaret Elizabeth Johnson, James Turner Johnson, William David Perkins, III and Katherine Harris Perkins of Nashville; and many friends and family.

Visitation will be at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 8 at First United Methodist Church in Columbia, 222 West 7th Street, with services immediately following at 4:00. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Salvation Army.

Williams Funeral Home in Columbia is assisting the family with arrangements.