William Cleotus Turner

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the passing of William "Bill" Turner, who departed this life on April 6, 2025, in Memphis, Tennessee. Born on May 1, 1935, in Floyd County, Virginia, William was the beloved son of the late Hunter Otis Beaver and Elizabeth "Whitten" Turner. Bill was a loyal and steadfast man who dedicated himself to the Lord and family.

William Turner is preceded in death by his father, mother, sisters, Mary Sue Lemons and Virgina B.

Price; and brother, Earnest Price.

Bill's spirit lives in the hearts of those he leaves behind: primarily his devoted wife, Margret Martin Turner and her extensive family, five nieces, three nephews, and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Throughout his life, Bill provided a consistent presence in all of their lives and gave his time expansively. Bill also leaves behind multiple friends and colleagues.

William Turner's work ethic was unparalleled. He was enlisted and discharged from the U.S. Army on June 17,1958. He completed a Nurse's Aide course from A.B.G. Training Center in December 1979 and he graduated from State University of New York Education Department in April 1984.

He was recognized for 16 years of service as a loyal and dedicated member of the Police Department of the City of New York in June 1998. Although he retired from the New York Police Academy, he continued to work long into his 70's. At the Academy, he also served as a union shop steward for his AFSCME DC 37 local which is the largest local in New York City. Bill believed in the union and was actively interested in politics.

Bill was also a soldier in the Army of the Lord. He was baptized in New York at Kelley's Temple Church of God in Christ in 1985. He was an active participant in the Men Marching for Christ Rally in July 1991. After he gave his life to Christ, he was a dedicated church man who rose to the office of deacon first at Kelly's Temple in New York City, New York. Bill later moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where he became a member at Holy City Church of God in Christ and was an Ordained Deacon in 2015 under Bishop Jerry W. Taylor until his passing.

A visitation for William will be held Saturday, April 12, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Holy City Church Of God In Christ, 3208 James Rd, Memphis, TN 38128. A funeral will occur Saturday, April 12, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 3208 James Rd, Memphis, TN 38128. A graveside will occur Saturday, April 12, 2025 from 3:30 PM to 4:00 PM at Memphis Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, 3700 N Germantown Pkwy, Bartlett, TN 38133.