Donald Lloyd Turner, 83, of New Ulm, Texas, passed away peacefully at home on Aug. 9, 2023.
He was born July 4, 1940, to Clarence Homer Turner and Ora Dean Welch in Newhope, Ark. Don grew up and attended school in Dierks, Ark. After high school graduation, he attended the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville where he received his bachelor’s degree and was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon.
After college Donald served as a Sergeant in the US Army and then for many years in the US Army Reserves.
After the Army, he married the love of his life, Martha Jim Austin, on Oct. 4, 1964, in Dierks, Ark. The couple lived in Houston, Texas. Mr. Turner worked for Weingarten grocery stores making his way up to manager. Next, he owned three camera stores — The Camera Center, in the River Oaks Shopping Center, the Camera Corner, in Highland Village, and the Camera Corral in Town & Country.
After his retirement, the Turners moved to New Ulm, Texas, where Don enjoyed ranching and Marti continued her teaching career at Bellville High School.
Don was a member of the Whitehall Club, the Briar Club, and a member and deacon at River Oaks Baptist Church in Houston, Texas.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Ora Turner, and his son, Scott Austin Turner.
Donald is survived by his loving wife, Martha Austin Turner, and his son Blake Lane Turner, both of New Ulm, Texas.
Graveside memorial services will be held 11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023, at Dierks Cemetery under the direction of Wilkerson Funeral Home in De Queen, Ark.
A reception will follow at Holly Creek Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.
Friends who wish may make memorial gifts to: The Scott Austin Turner Scholarship Fund, 2300 Willowick, Houston, TX 77027; or the charity of your choice.
You may leave a condolence online at www.wilkersonfuneralhomes.com.
