Todd Michael Turner

His life’s journey began in Charleston, Illinois, on December 12, 1965. Born to James and Susie Turner, Todd and his close-knit siblings, Jamie and Nathan, spent their early years in Pana, before moving to Havana, Illinois, in 1979.

As a child, Todd savored summers spent on the baseball diamond. He later discovered a talent for running that took him all the way to the state championships — twice. His talents as both an athlete and scholar were considerable, as was his kindness.

Inspired by stories told by his great-grandfather, Todd developed an interest in history that shaped his life. He earned a degree in history from Western Illinois University in 1988 and went on to study law at the University of Illinois College Of Law. During five memorable months in 1989, Todd interned for the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C., helping to craft speeches for Chief Justice William Rehnquist and Justice Sandra Day O’Connor.

Todd left the U of I with a law degree and love, after meeting Valerie in a ballroom dance class. Partners for life, the two married on April 16, 1994. Their love and family continued to grow with the arrivals of Benjamin and Olivia— and their beloved dachshunds, Sophie and Molly.

A trusted lawyer, Todd specialized in business and real estate transactions at Sorling Northrup Attorneys in Springfield for 22 years. He also worked to help the homeless as a decade-long member of the Sangamon County Salvation Army Advisory Board, including one term as president.

In his free time, Todd read history books, played golf, and enjoyed shooting for sport. Since his diagnosis, Todd was always learning something new. He began flying aerial drones, working on his 1966 Ford F-250, and made a valiant effort to learn guitar — something that had long been on his bucket list. Todd also dedicated his time to helping others navigate their cancer journeys by sharing his wisdom on how to “choose to be happy” and place their faith in God.

Conversations with Todd nearly always included a witty observation, self-deprecating joke, useless trivia, and easy laughs. His wry sense of humor helped him navigate years of pain, uncertainty and discomfort.

Cancer was no match for the spirit we knew as Todd. His love of life — and ability to laugh at it — remained strong until the very end. Todd was not afraid to die, and we have no doubt he is now introducing himself to Jesus and his favorite historical figures.

Todd believed that life is not a destination, but a journey — and he made the most of that journey. We could not have asked for a better traveling companion.

Todd is survived by his loving wife, Valerie; son and best buddy, Ben; daughter, Olivia, his “Little One”; mother, Susie Smith (Larry) of Havana; father, James Turner (Sandy) of Springfield; brother, Nathan Turner (Aimee) of Havana; sister, Jamie Behrends (Todd) of Virginia; mother-in-law, Mary Ann Yara of Naperville; sister-in-law, Michelle Lambert (Mike) of Naperville; brother-in-law, Mark Gratz of Batavia; and six nieces and nephews, Adria, Allison, Chloe, Jack, Nate, and Nick.

Todd was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents; father-in-law, John Yara; and sister-in-law, Amy Gratz.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

Memorial Gathering and Ceremony: The family will receive friends on Friday, December 27, 2024, beginning at 2:00 p.m. at Laurel United Methodist Church, 631 S. Grand Ave. West, Springfield, IL. A Ceremony in Todd’s honor will follow at 4:00 p.m., with Rev. Dr. Kent Lolling officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made in Todd’s honor to the Salvation Army of Springfield, Illinois, Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or Laurel United Methodist Church.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield.