James Arthur Turner III

James Arthur Turner III passed away peacefully on October 20, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. James, known to family and friends as “Bubba”, was born in Tampa on November 13, 1950. He attended St. John's Parish Day School and Berkeley Preparatory School. He also graduated from The University of the South and Clemson University, where he studied economics and engineering, respectively.

James retired as President and Chief Executive Officer of TAW, an industrial services company founded in 1921 by his grandfather, James Arthur Turner, Sr. Originally Tampa Armature Works, the company rebranded as it expanded beyond Tampa and motor repair. James worked for the company in nearly every capacity before taking the helm in 1987, transforming TAW into the largest independently-held company in its industry in the United States. Today, TAW offers a comprehensive array of power solutions and serves customers at the highest levels of government and industry. James achieved the dream he shared with his grandfather, owning and operating the company for over 100 years. TAW is also the namesake of Armature Works on the Hillsborough River.

James served on the Board of Trustees of The University of Tampa and Berkeley Preparatory School, where he was the first alumnus to be Chairman of the Board. He received the Berkeley Alumni Achievement Award in 2010. Additionally, he was a past President and member of the Board of Directors of The Rotary Club of Tampa. He was also on the Board of Advisors of the University of South Florida College of Engineering and the Board of The Spring of Tampa Bay.

James was a member of Hyde Park United Methodist Church, Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club, Tampa Yacht and Country Club, The Stovall House, Pelican Golf Club, and Merrymakers Club. He was a loyal member of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla and reigned as King Gasparilla CVII.

James is survived by his wife of 40 years, Ann Turner, daughter Caroline Turner, son Will Turner, daughter-in-law Gwen Kingston, and sister Nancy Turner. He was preceded in death by his parents, James A. Turner, Jr. and Martha Holden Turner.

A Memorial Service will be held at Hyde Park United Methodist Church on Tuesday, November 5th at 11:00 AM. After the service, a reception will be held at Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider giving your time to help someone in need.