W. D. Turner Obituary

Source: The Tupelo Journal, Friday, March 31, 1911

On Friday last the remains of W. D. Turner, who died in Birmingham, Ala., were brought here and taken to the home of Mr. H. E. Porter, brother-in law of the deceased.

Mr. Turner for many years was a citizen of this county, having enlisted as a Confederate soldier when quite a young man at Shannon in Pinson’s regiment. He served for three years in this command and was transferred to the 11th Mississippi Calvary. His record as a soldier was characterized by that fidelity to duty that marked every act of his life. After the war he engaged in farming near Shannon; later he moved to Verona where he resided many years.

Mr. Turner was one of those men in whose nature was revealed all the elements that go to make up a real true man. He was modest and unassuming, but courageous and there could never be any question raised as to what position he occupied in matters of public interest, politics or religion, he was always on the right side of every proposition.

He had but one ambition and that was to fulfill every duty. In his every day life he was liberal in his views and courteous of manner and charitable as a man could be. As a friend, he was as true as a brother and no confidence was ever misplaced confided in him. As a father and husband he measured up to the highest standards and gave to his family that measure of devotion which had characterized him as a man and citizen.

The past several years Mr. Turner had resided at Overton, a suburb of Birmingham. His virtues were recognized by all who knew him and from the boot black to the Bishop he had the friendship of all. Many beautiful floral offering from Birmingham friends were sent to be laid on his resting place.

On Saturday afternoon funeral services were conducted from the residence by Rev. W. L. Duren, of the Methodist church, the deceased being a member of that denomination for many years. Three sons and two daughters are left to mourn his loss. P. H. Turner, Sheffield, Ala., Robert Turner, of Texas, and Rev. R. J. Turner and Misses Flora and Annie turner of Birmingham, Ala.

The body was laid to rest in Glenwood cemetery by the side of that of his wife, who preceded him to the grave several years ago.