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Willie "W.C." Turk

Willie Turk Obituary


Family-Placed Death Notice

WILLIE (W.C.) TURK Age 55, passed Sunday, February 29, 2004. Funeral services will be held Friday, March 5, 2004, at 12 noon at Greenforest Community Baptist Church, 3250 Rainbow Drive, Decatur, GA. Interment, Kennedy Memorial Gardens. Survivors are devoted wife, Dr. Catherine Holmes Turk; son, Mr. and Mrs. Marcus Turk (Melissa); two grandchildren, Maxwell and Marissa; mother, Evelyn D. Turk; sister, Barbara J. Turk Willis; Karol B. Baynes and Kamiyah Baynes, and a host of other relatives and friends Family and friends are asked to assemble at the church at 11:30 a.m. Viewing be held TONIGHT from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Mount Patmos Baptist Church, 2207 Candler Road, Decatur, GA. In lieu of flowers, donations be made to the American Cancer Society specified for Lung Cancer Research, mail checks to The Champion Newspaper, P.O. Box 1347, Decatur, Georgia 30031. Please note that the donations is in memory of Willie C. Turk. Personal and public acknowledgements will be made for all donations. Raleigh Rucker Funeral Home, 404-288-7015.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution from Mar. 1 to Mar. 4, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Willie Turk

Not sure what to say?





Patricia "Trisha" Powell

February 23, 2025

Wille,
You are gone from us.... but not forgotten!
I miss that smile of yours Cousin. Your eyes would light with it
Your sense of humor, when you shared a memory, story, or event, was entertaining and left a lasting effect.

Rest Well... Cuz
Much Love,

Patricia/Trisha

Patricia Powell & Family

February 23, 2023

Willie,
Continue to Rest Well Cousin! You are Gone.....But Never Forgotten!!!

Patricia Dunn-Powell

February 23, 2022

You had that funny side about you, Cuz. You could light up a room with your storytelling, of your everyday encounters!
Now, you entertain and interact with the Angels
Gone but not Forgotten, Willie!!!
Much Love Cuz

Patricia Powell

February 24, 2020

Willie, you have been gone a long time now....Gone but not forgotten. I have been thinking about my/all of our childhoods in Covington/Porterdale, a lot lately. It does not make me sad but makes me GLAD to have such fond memories of us growing up. It was not always a life of "milk and honey." There were days (especially weekends) that produced temporary "turbulence and sadness!" Whatever the mood....they are still our Memories and it makes me.......Happy!!! Rest in Heaven. I am sure you are the champion Angel....Insuring the new souls' Heavenly Homes. Much Love, Cuz. Patricia :-)

Patricia Powell

February 26, 2019

He was a kind and considerate cousin. He is sadly missed by family and friends. Rest in Heaven!!!

Al & Fannie Tartt

February 24, 2019

We will always have wonderful memories of Willie! May his loving family continue to focus on all the wonderful things he did for others and all the little memories that are so very meaningful, i.e. clean cars, best steaks in Atlanta & no Waffle House in Tallassee no matter how long you look for one!

Harriet Carmichael

April 4, 2005

To The Turks:

We all miss Willie, but the fond memories lingers on;The Barbershop Stops; The Insurance Agents; The Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee Couple; and a person who was never a stranger.

Kenny Ashe

April 4, 2005

Dear Catherine & family,



Future generations should understand that this humble patriarch fulfilled his destiny. He left a legacy of Commitment, Support, and Love, for God, his family, and the community. Willie exemplified these attributes to me after having met him in the summer of 2003 at an AVID conference in which I was volunteering. He welcomed me in as if I had known him for years. I fondly remember his quick wit that made me laugh, but also made me stop to seriously ponder the wisdom in his message. I will always remember how he and Catherine came to support me at a community fundraiser on an October evening. He gave of himself unselfishly to honor that commitment for which I am grateful. He left a great legacy of commitment, support, and love for the present generation and for generations to come. Willie Turk fulfilled his destiny.

Connie Sandidge

April 3, 2005

Dear Catherine, Marcus, Melissa, and Children,



It doesn't seem like it's been a year already since we lost Willie. I still have vivid memories of him as we worked with AVID conferences and with the church. While time may have assuaged your pain a bit as the year passed, I know that the deep sense of loss will never lessen. May God ever bless you as you keep your precious memories alive.

James Mann

April 2, 2005

Dear Cat:

As you are aware, I have known Willie for over thirty years. We never had much contact with each other due to geography. However, in 1972, I had the opportunity to spend a day with him on his job as an Insurance Salesman. During that time I found Willie to be a very charismatic, energetic and a full of life type of individual. We bonded very well for we had very similiar personalities. This was the first opportunity we had ever been together alone and therefore we were able to discuss a wide range of topics such as family, career, etc.

Willie was a good person, and I will miss him. May God Bless you and your family.

Al Walker

March 31, 2005

Catherine, Marc, Melissa, et al

It's still unreal to me that Willie is no longer with us. We miss him and we continue to pray for your transformation of grief into cherished memories. Pat and I are here if you need anything of us. God Bless.

Daisy Davis

March 29, 2005

Catherine and family,

Willie as I knew him: fun, funny, smiling, kind words, kind works, faithful, loyal, and true.



Daisy Davis

Joy Killum

March 29, 2005

Dear Catherine, Marcus, Melissa, and family--



A warm smile, a kind countenance,and sincere caring are lasting memories of Willie C. Turk. He was selfless in his concern for others. He could be counted on for words of wisdom from the success of his experience in fathering his son.



Catherine, seeing you together was a beautiful portrait of love and friendship honoring God's exhortation that husbands and wives should love each other even as Christ loved the Church. I am happy that he shared the love of Christ which provides the assurance that this separation at his passing is only a temporary phase in the move from this life to eternity.



Those following can learn from Willie's legacy of a life well-lived. It was a pleasure to have had the opportunity to meet and to get to know him.

Cynthia Hill

March 28, 2005

I will remember your Willie as one of the magnificent Three (3) Turks! He was always well groomed, poised, articulate, knowledgeable, very personable and extremely helpful whenever you crossed his path. Willie definitely presented himself as an excellent role model for all to admire.

Senator Steen Miles

March 28, 2005

Dearest Catherine, Marcus and Melissa,

It's been a year since the physical Willie departed from among us but his spirit lives eternally through you and the children. One of God's greatest gifts is memory. When the lonely days come, call up one of your fond memories of a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather who was a devout Christian and a consummate friend and mentor to many. He was the genuine article. And, oh what a dashing figure he cut. Always dressed to the nines with with a ready smile. There were few who were anymore dapper than Willie Turk. My love, prayers and continued best wishes are with you always.

Zeddie Perry, II

March 28, 2005

Catherine and Family,



As future generations of Turks read these memoirs I would like for them to know that Nettie and I will always value your friendship. From the time we met in Goldsboro, NC to the reunion in Atlanta, we have certainly had some memorable times with you and Willie. Willie was a very genuine, sincere and personable person. This along with his meticulous attenton to every thing, especially clothes, made him a person that stood out from the ordinary. If you couldn't get along with Turk, you had a real problem. He was a wonderful person. Nettie and Zeddie

Al Tartt

March 28, 2005

The Willie I knew (continued)



Thoughtful & sensitive to others

Understanding & caring

Real...Real...Real..."so Unique"

Kind, generous& gentle!



Great Man I was fortunate to know!

Fannie Tartt

March 28, 2005

The WILLIE C. TURK I Knew!

Willing to lend a helping hand

Intellectaully challenging

Loving & devoted to family &

friends

Living life ti its fullest

Inter-motivated

Energetic & enthusiastic



CLEAN! CLEAN! CLEAN!

Johnnie Mae Hines-Martin

March 28, 2005

To Catherine & Family,



I am sorry to hear of your loss. You and your family are in my prayers. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you.

Anthony & Margaret Garvin

March 28, 2005

Dr. Turk and Family,

Our lives on earth are like threads and we create a tapestry when we interact and fellowship with others. Dea. Turk's thread was one that demonstrated his love for God, family and fellowman. He wove himself around, into, and through the lives of all who knew him with abounding joy, freedom to love and lots of laughter!



He is missed but our lives are better for having known him, even if for just a short time.



Be encouraged and consoled by knowing that our prayers are with you.



Love, Peace, and Blessings,

Shirley Reams

March 28, 2005

Hello Catherine,

I will always remember the pride, love and respect that Willie had for you and family. He was proud to call you his wife and Maxwell his grandson. I am confident that your many loving memories will sustain you.

Herbert & Donna Hill

March 28, 2005

Dear Catherine,

Have you ever met people that you feel like you've known all your life? That's how we feel. We first met you and Willie through Joyce and William on Kelly Lake Dr. some years ago.



You and Willie were so kind, hospitable, and fun to talk to. We always looked forward to visiting with you. And we will always be grateful for Marcie's graduation dinner the two of you orchestrated. We miss him too.



God bless you,and all the best to Mark and his family. We believe that Willie's sweet soul is still smiling and still loving his beautiful wife and children.

Keep the faith,

Donna and Herbert Hill (Chicago)

Carla Jones

July 9, 2004

Dear Catherine,

I know that some time has passed since the death of Willie, but I wanted you to know that you are still in my thoughts and prayers. Every time I saw you and Willie, I saw an example of true love and joy. I pray that you and your son will be blessed. May the Lord strengthen and keep you.

Chanda Roberts White

March 31, 2004

Dr. Turk and Family,

I was saddened to hear of the passing of such a beautiful person. Mr. Turk was such a great supporter of his wife and son. I know that God will continue to get you through your loss. It is from God where all of our help comes. You remain in my prayers and thoughts.



Sincerely,

Chanda Roberts White

Ron Ottinger

March 29, 2004

Catherine--I cannot imagine the loss of such a wonderful life partner. My heart goes out to you in particular, and to your son. I am so glad that I had a brief opportunity to meet Willie. My thoughts are with you. Ron

Bill Hammond

March 20, 2004

Hello Catherine:

I know that your strength and determination will take you forward, as Willie would want. How luck you are to have had such a quality relationship and a sincere and dedicated life partner.

So, no condolences and no expression of regret. No pity and no tears. Only beautiful memories and a celebration of what remains. I do celebrate all that you and Willie started together and what is to come for you in the future.



Your good and true friend,

Michele Marcus

March 18, 2004

Dear Catherine,

My heart goes out to you because I know first hand the depth of the loss which you are experiencing. Know that your friends are angels sent by God to hold you up during this difficult time. I am one of them. So call on me any time day or night when you need a listener or a long distance hug. Lovingly, Michele

Cary Holt

March 15, 2004

Dear Catherine,

I remember you when we were both students at Georgia State. Years later, I saw you again at your (then) neighbors, the Coodys. It was at that time that I also met your husband.



I am deeply sorry to hear of your loss. Please take the necessary time and measures to cope with it.



My prayers go out to you, your son, and other members of your family. I have met your mother-in-law who happens to live near me. It is my hope that all of you will find some measure of comfort in the wonderful memories you must have.



Sincere sympathy,

Cary

Denetrice Pugh

March 9, 2004

I extend my deepest condolences to my dear friend, Marcus, and his family. Marcus please take comfort in knowing that your dad has passed on to his eternal life where there is no more suffering. May your wonderful memories sustain you during this difficult time.

Eddie Rhodman, Jr.

March 9, 2004

Dr. Turk,

I am deeply saddened to hear of this sudden occurrence and I send my condolences. I only spent one day with Mr. Turk but it will be one that I will always remember and cherish. I will keep you and your family in prayer.

Kashuna Blake

March 9, 2004

You had what many can never gain in a lifetime--true love. It is an inspiration to all. It is something that you cannot buy, yet makes you the richest of all.



Thank you.



With love and sincerity,

Rob Gira

March 8, 2004

Catherine--Please accept my deepest sympathies. Willie touched many people in his life and made an immediate and positive impression. I was honored to know him.



Rob

Nathaniel HENDERSON

March 8, 2004

Dr. Turk;

Our prayers are with you and your family during this time of loss. May God and time heal your hearts.



Yours in Christ,

Deacon Nate & Karen Henderson

Patricia, Jack, and Lee Powell

March 6, 2004

Catherine,



May God's Peace be with you in this time of Sorrow, and may his Loving Arms uplift you and the family. With Love, The Powells

Mica Inge

March 5, 2004

Dear Dr. Turk,



I will keep you and your family in my prayers during this difficult time. Dr. Mica Inge (Mica Bell your former English student-Columbia High School).

E. J. Jester, Sr.

March 5, 2004

To The Turk Family,



Thinking of you and praying that God will send you peace in this difficult time.

Rev. E. J. Jester, Sr. & The First Baptist Family

Susan Lamar

March 5, 2004

Catherine,

I was sadden to hear the news about your husband. Please know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Susan Lamar

Clarissa Robinson

March 5, 2004

To the Turk Family, I was saddened to hear of WC's passing. He had such a vibrant spirit. I had the pleasure of working with him at First Union/Wachovia. He will be greatly missed.

RUTH BANKS

March 5, 2004

TO THE FAMILY OF WILLIE TURK,

WE SHARE YOUR GREIF AT THIS TIME OF SORROW. REMEMBER EARTH HAS NO SORROW THAT HEAVEN CAN NOT HEAL.

WE WILL CONTINUE TO LIFT YOU IN PRAYER.

BE BLESSED IN THE LORD,

RUTH BANKS AND MOTHER PEARL BANKS

Jean Kelly

March 4, 2004

Dr.Katherine Turk, and Mr. and Mrs.Marcus Turk and Family:

My deepest sympathy is extended to you in the loss of your husband and father. Please know that I am praying for you.

Luther & Willie Washington

March 4, 2004

To Mrs. Turk, Marcus, & Family,

All our deepest sympathy in your time of grief. We will always remember Mr. Turk fondly and remember the very positive impact that he had on our lives.

Grady & Myrtle Mayfield

March 4, 2004

To Catherine, Marcus & Family



We want to extend our condolences to the family. We will always cherish the friendship that we shared with you and Willie. Trust in the Lord and He will comfort you.

Willie Coleman

March 4, 2004

Dr.Turk and Family,

I was saddened to hear of the lost of your husband.

Whenever darks days come and we cannot understand, we must trust His wisdom and be guided by His hand. May it comfort you to know that you are in His care, and that we're all a part of God and God is everywhere.

Mark Bennett

March 4, 2004

My Dear Dr. Turk:



My condolences to you and your family. Thinking of you at this difficult time.



Sincerely,

mkb @ AVID Center

Brenda Posey

March 4, 2004

Dr. Turk,



My deepest sympathies to you and your family at this difficult time.

Polly Meriwether Lewis and Sons

March 4, 2004

To Catherine, Mark and family members,



I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Judith Riffle

March 4, 2004

Catherine and family -

Your AVID colleagues heard of your loss at our strategic planning gathering, and we send our heartfelt condolences. We know you're surrounded by family and friends and hope you're deriving every comfort from them this season.

Michael Curtis

March 4, 2004

Catherine and Mark,



We will keep you lifted up in prayer during this time of loss; know that you are not alone.

Aunt Eliza Mae Turk

March 4, 2004

Catherine and Family,

We share with you the loss of our dear Willie. Our prayers will forever be with you and your family.

Mark Wolfe

March 4, 2004

Catherine,



I was so sorry to hear about your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. Take care.



Mark Wolfe

Natasha Nelson

March 4, 2004

To the Turk Family,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. The Nelson Family (First Baptist Church)

Brian Kick

March 4, 2004

Catherine and Family,

Grace and peace to you and yours during this difficult time. May you be encircled by close friends and family and provided the strength you need to get through these days.

Adam Behar

March 4, 2004

Dr. Turk:



I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you.



Love,



Adam Behar

Mary Catherine Swanson

March 4, 2004

Dear Catherine and Family,

What a pleasure it was to know Willie. He was such a tremendous supporter of you both personally and professionally. He will be missed by so many of us.

Mary Catherine

Bill and Jean Walker

March 4, 2004

Dr. Turk and the Turk family, Please know how saddened we were to hear of the loss of your husband and family member. It is our prayer that your loving memories and faith bring you comfort and peace now and in the difficult days ahead.

Maryellen Pienta

March 4, 2004

Dear Catherine,

I am so sorry to hear about the untimely loss of your husband. My prayers and condolences are with you and your son and his family. God bless you all.



In sympathy,

Angela Colbert

March 4, 2004

DR. Turk and Family



My deepest condolences in the loss of your loved one.



You and your family are in my prayers.

Teresa and Timothy Freeman

March 4, 2004

Catherine,

We are so saddened to hear of your loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.



Teresa and Tim

John and Jackie Carr

March 3, 2004

Catherine, Marcus and Family,



We were so sorry to hear of Willie's passing. Please know that we are here for you and that we will keep you in our prayers. May God's shining light help see you through this most difficult time.



Love,

Joanne Jackson-Jones

March 3, 2004

Dr. Turk,

We are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of your husband. Our prayers are with you and Marcus as you go through this very difficult time. Continue to hold on to your faith and God will comfort you.

Sincerely,

Joanne Jackson-Jones-Dekalb Schools

Kathy Darville

March 3, 2004

To the Turk Family: I had the pleasure of knowing and working with WC at First Union/Wachovia. He was a wonderful mentor who will be sorely missed. My sympathy and prayers are with you during this time of bereavement.

JAMES & MARGARET PITTMAN

March 3, 2004

MRS TURK, WE WERE SO SORRY TO HEAR OF YOUR LOSS. CONTINUE TO KEEP THE FAITH, FOR IT IS TRUSTING IN HIS POWER THAT KEEPS US STRONG. WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER TO GOOD TIMES AND THE GOOD DEEDS. THE PITTMANS

Rosa Grier

March 2, 2004

To Dr. Turk, and the entire Turk family.We are deeply sadden by the death of Willie. I pray that the Holy Spirit will comfort you as only He can,during your time of mourning.

WALLACE EDGE, JR. & FAMILY

March 2, 2004

CATHERINE, MARK AND FAMILY,

AS YOU GO THRU YOUR TIME OF BEREAVEMENT, WE ARE IN PRAYER FOR YOU. I WILL ALWAYS COUNT IT A BLESSING TO HAVE HAD THE HONOR AND PRIVILEDGE OF KNOWING MR. TURK FOR 27 YEARS AND WORKING WITH AND FOR HIM. OUR LOVE AND OUR PRAYERS TO YOU ALL. THE EDGE FAMILY

Robert and Felicia Mitchell

March 2, 2004

Dr. Turk and Marcus, may you be comforted by the many expressions of admiration of your husband and father. He was highly regarded by many. May God be with you during this difficult period.

Stephanie Miller-Center

March 2, 2004

Dr. Turk, Mark & Melissa my prayers are with you. Please let me know if there is anything that I can do.



Stephanie & Family

Mary McCall Cash

March 2, 2004

Dearest Marcus,

With great shock and sorrow I learned from Desiree of your father's passing. I know that there are no words sufficient to assuage your grief, but please know that I am keeping you in my heart and in my prayers. You are so very dear.

With love,

Mary McCall

Linda Johnson

March 2, 2004

Our deepest sympathy to the entire Turk Family. You are in our hearts and prayers always. Many lives were touched by Willie's smile and loving personality. He was a wonderful person and dear cousin.



Linda, Curtis and Brittany Johnson

William , Joyce & Derek Dedeaux

March 2, 2004

Catherine, Mark,

Your loss is felt by many. Be encouraged that you have friends who are here to support you now as before. Forever look to the one that gives you the strength to continue. Remember we love you! We know how much you will miss Willie and we will too.Time will heal all wounds. We have shared so many things and nothing can stop the frienship we have.Keep the faith!

John Wayne & Anntolea Cody

March 2, 2004

You have our Deepest Sympathy,We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Willie. May you always cherrish the memories and he will forever live in your hearts.God bless and keep you.

Vernell Phillips

March 2, 2004

For I am convinced that death nor life can ever separte us from the love of GOD that is in Christ Jesus our Lord, so continue to have Hope. I worked with W.C. at Life of Georgia for several yerars, he will always be with me in my spirit.

Rev & Mrs J.B. Nuckles

March 1, 2004

We are deeply saddened by the passing of your loved one. "Let not your heart be troubled..." John 14

Diane Harvey

March 1, 2004

Dr. Turk and Family,

I am sorry to learn of your loss. May your husband/father continue to live in your hearts and memories.



Diane Harvey - DeKalb Schools

Larry & Lettie Hawkins

March 1, 2004

Absent from this earth, but ever present with the Lord. We are sorry for your loss. We will always remember Willie from our First Baptist years. He will sorely be missed. You and your family are in our prayers.

Satchel Jester

March 1, 2004

Turk family, please accept our deepest condolences in the loss of your love one. My family and I will pray that God will comfort and keep you. Look ever to Jesus, He will carry you through.

dan rosenberg

March 1, 2004

sorry to hear of your loss. i worked with w c at wachovia. he will be missed

Deborah Burns

March 1, 2004

I would like take this to express my sympathy to Mrs Turk, Marcus, Melissa, Max and Marissa for the loss of the loved one Mr. Turk

Orlando Adams

March 1, 2004

I am so sorry for your loss. Your husband was a great man. He was one of my Falcons Tailgate friends. I recently saw him at Ken Marshall's Wedding. If you need anything please do not hesitate to call me at Redan Middle School.

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