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Brit Turner was the drummer for the country rock band Blackberry Smoke.
We invite you to share condolences for Brit Turner in our Guest Book.
Read Full Obituary.
(Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images)
143 Entries
Susan Ragsdale
June 23, 2025
Brit was a wonderful musician and a friend to many. He was so gracious to me and helped me deal with the loss of my husband. Thank you Brit. Rest in peace.
Vicky Pullig
March 21, 2025
Love and miss you, man. More than words can say. Praying for your family to have the peace that you do right now
MARK CRETELLA
March 7, 2025
Miss you brother Brit. It´s been a year now. When we met, the band was a 4 pc support act. Hard to believe nowadays. It was the 2009 Little piece of Dixie tour. Twin guitars knocked me out when you opened with Up in Smoke and your sticks dancing on that ride cymbal was just musical magic. You and Richard, Charlie and Paul locking it in. During the set change I came out, introduced myself and talked as you were loading gear into your trailer. Following year you headlined the same venue in Annapolis Maryland. Still a 4 pc. though. After the show, we talked about our kids struggles with cancer. You were compassionate and a stand up guy and wanted my number to support me. We became a mutual support team for many years. 2 days later you called to tell me the band dedicated Prayer for the little Man at the show in Pa. the night before. My musical prayer! I told my son that and he lit up. Thank you for your love and being a very good friend Brit! Shannon and Lana and Richard I´m very sad and sorry for your loss. My son was put into hospice in 2012. His words.... Dad I´m not afraid, I´ve got Faith. He passed January 2013. I know Brit was always positive with tons of Faith. Please keep the faith. Peace and Love, Mark
Richard Olten
January 25, 2025
Great Drummer. Will be missed. R.I.P. Brother.
Sheila Kalcevic
October 4, 2024
He will be missed ALWAYS but The true fans know his spirt is at EVERYSHOW !!! Love and Miss ya Brit Turner !!!
Picture from one great evening here in Denver , Co years back .
Clive James Bolger
October 3, 2024
I had the pleasure of seeing Brit with BBS 4 times, in Ireland and Spain. Love the band and love your drumming, style,groove,feel and sound. RIP Brit.
Steve Shack
August 21, 2024
You were one of the best with an incredible band. Lost my amazing brother with the same
About 20 years ago I am crying for your family and friends. So sorry
Pat Corbin
May 2, 2024
Sweet, down to earth, and a fan's man. I have been blessed to meet Brit and see the band several times. Our 70s music was and is great but BBS not only shares their music, they share (gives of) themselves.
David Fuller Anderson
May 1, 2024
I knew Brit from my time gigging with Bob Burns. Bob would run into Atlanta Pro Percussion to get sticks and such and we'd all get to talking shop. This was the metal daze of Nihilist...late 80s. Brit truly was a North Star burning bright. His talents...his love of family are not lost in his absence.
If you see his monument...play his music.
Rest in Perfect Eternal Timing...
Jess monsam
March 24, 2024
Never got to meet the man personally but I did see him play twice at the shed (AWESOME) and I heard he was a great person, Blackberry Smoke is the best band going in my mind and all my prayers and thoughts go out to Brits family and his band mates,BBS did it Brits because it was the best way!!! Keep on ROCKIN BBS for Brit!!
Bob Creely
March 21, 2024
I first met Brit on The Simpleman cruises and many times after. He would always come up to me and say hello. We would talk and share a few laughs. He was always very kind and down to earth. My sincere condolences to Shannon / Lana / Richard and Blackberry Smoke. The last time I saw Brit was last year at Rock Ribs n Ridges behind the drums. Big smile and having fun. I will always remember him that way. Bob Creely
Bob Creely
March 21, 2024
I met Brit on The Simpleman cruises. He was always kind and easy to talk to. He would always come up to me and say hello and spend some time n have a few laughs. I would see him on the road and he would do the same. My deepest sympathy to Shannon / Lana / Richard and the band of brothers . Bob Creely
Ria Heft
March 21, 2024
Jeff and I want to wish Shannon,
Lana, Richard and the Turner family our deepest condolences. May Brit RIP and the family know he is in a better place. We all will miss him greatly! His kindness, personality, smile and blowing hair will always be remembered by many of us! Prayers from both of us.
Mary Margaret Turney
March 17, 2024
He told me at a meet and greet in November that cancer sucked. I agree. My heart aches for everyone that was touched by Brit. My condolences to his wife and Lana. Much love from Indiana.
Jeff Waddell
March 17, 2024
Fills sails on your next journey.
Sue Rahn
March 16, 2024
My husband and I have seen BBS 3 times and couldn´t wait to see the next show!! When I heard of his diagnosis, I prayed everyday for him and his family having a relative been diagnosed with the same thing. God bless everyone
Teresa McDaniel
March 16, 2024
not enough words to express how we feel. Thx for your light and beat. #blackberrysmoke
Rick and Teresa McDaniel
Joanne
March 16, 2024
Sending thoughts and prayer to Brit´s family during this time. I also pray for healing for the band. I know Brit is resting & at peace now and watching over us all. Godspeed friend
Hank Vaiden
March 15, 2024
My deepest condolences to Brit´s family and the BBS family.. First met Brit and the guys in Columbus, Ms. doing a fund raiser for Ian Evans, who at the time was battling cancer. Brit was a great person and always willing to help anyone, so many acts of kindness. Prayers for the families and the guys in band and all the BBS family..
Georganna Schottle
March 15, 2024
I will always remember Brits hair blowing in the breeze while he was playing. Happy memories.
Derek Smith
March 15, 2024
Sorry for your loss.
Blaine Kwisz
March 15, 2024
Rest in peace brit, fly high bro
Sheri Reyes
March 15, 2024
My deepest condolences to his family. I first saw Brit when I was 12 years old at the skating rink. He was flying around to the song "My Sharona". I remember thinking "I hope that he goes to my school", as I was new to Smyrna. Not only did he go to my new school, but he lived in my new neighborhood! Through the years he was always so sweet, cool, different. Rock on Brit. Love ya.
Harm Jan Laan
March 15, 2024
Our deepest respect and condolences for your loss.
Being a musician is one thing.
Being a husband, dad, family and friend is the real deal.
Wish you all the strength you need.
Traci
March 15, 2024
Brit was such a great human. His loss definitely left a scar on all of our hearts. Prayers for Shannan, Lana, Richard, the band, the crew and all of the brothers and sisters as we carry his love onward.
Craig Pettigrew
March 15, 2024
My thoughts are with Brit´s family and friends. So sorry for your loss. Brit fought a long and hard battle to the end. He touched so many through his music and kindness. Although I never met Brit I felt what an awesome individual and human being he was. Purely through his music and videos I have watched and will always cherish. Albeit from far away in Southern River Perth Western Australia. He truly is an inspiration. Rest In Peace Brit.
John Davies
March 15, 2024
Thank you Brit, you touched so many with your music and talents, you are a guiding lite in an otherwise dark world.
Kurt Raymond Vaagen
March 15, 2024
Thank you for all the memories and openness. You were a legend.
Colin Garrett
March 15, 2024
With deepest condolences to the entire Turner family on your loss.
I´ve been lucky enough to have seen BlackBerry Smoke on a few occasions and the pics and the time that Brit took to have a chat with me is one of my fondest memories, BlackBerry Smokes music got me through my own tough time when my mother suddenly passed away last year and I hope that the Turner family find the same comfort and healing power through his music that I did, god bless you all.
Luca
March 15, 2024
Buon viaggio Brit, che il tuo groove avvolga tutto il paradiso. Un abbraccio forte alla famiglia e si fratelli BBS
Sandy V
March 15, 2024
Rest in Peace
Ray Wagner
March 14, 2024
With deepest condolences. A tremendous loss to his family and friends.
I´m from New England and first saw BlackBerry Smoke a few years ago in New Hampshire when they opened for Lynyrd Skynyrd. I immediately became a fan. Brit appeared to really enjoy touring with his band mates and his time with his family when he was home. I´ll always remember the `shout out´ Brandon and Charlie each sent me before I went in for a life saving surgery back in 2020. The surgery did save my life but unfortunately I suffered a stroke during surgery. Even though Ive made a very good recovery there are still life long deficiencies I will live with. Two years after the stroke I was able to see Brit and the boys play again in Boston ! Hoping to see the band again this summer. Just like when I see Lynyrd Skynyrd, it´s impossible not to think of a great band with some its original members no longer with us.
Rest in peace brother !
Sharon Valente
March 14, 2024
I remember meeting Brit for the first time at The Shed. We showed up in the daytime hoping to catch a glimpse of the band members when Brit was working hard as he does making sure everything was ready to go speaking to sound, crew and tending to the merchandise. Although he was really busy he took the time to speak with us in such a way where he never once made us feel like we were bothering him. We left that conversation feeling like friends, like brothers and sisters. Such a special man. What a great loss. Condolences to his family and band family.
J Petersen
March 14, 2024
Great musician and was a great guy when I was able to spend a few minutes with him after shows. Prayers with his family, the band, and his friends. We lost a great one!
Lisa C
March 14, 2024
Many shows with Blackberry Smoke since 2009 and a few opportunities to chat with him. A beautiful person inside and out. As time passes I pray that there will be more days of peace and comfort for Shannon and Lana than there are days filled with sadness. It´s an unimaginable loss.
Cindylou Lawson
March 14, 2024
I´d like to send my love and condolences to the family, bandmates, and all who loved and appreciated Brit´s amazing soul and talent.
I will always be forever grateful of how kind and funny you were with everyone you met, especially my son.
Thank you for always being a shining light.
Much love and light,
Cindylou aka Sister Epic
Ron Shafer
March 14, 2024
Thank you Brit touching my soul with your music.
RIP kind sir!
Allan Pylvainen
March 14, 2024
As a drummer, born same year as Britt, I played in metal and hard rock bands but quit playing 20 years ago. I was inspired to play again watching Britt lay the groove down with BBS. Thanks for the inspiration and music you left behind for us to keep your memory alive.
Donald Hethcox
March 14, 2024
Godspeed brother Britt. Thanks for the wonderful music. You will be missed. Prayers to your band mates and your family
Magen
March 14, 2024
I found the band by accident, my best friend had tickets to see the in 2019 in Ashville NC. Had the best time. So the three of us saw them again durning the pandemic 2020 in Danville Va. Then again in 2022 in High Point, and Wilmington NC. I fell in love with their music and their love for great music. I just want to thank Britt for bringing us a band that we can rock to but still keeping tickets low enough where we can come enjoy a great time with a community of people. The Brothers and Sisters. As one of them thank you and I can't wait to see you jam sessions in heaven. Till we meet again fly high.
Angie G
March 14, 2024
Been to countless BBS concerts in last 11 years-Brit was amazing at his craft and will always part of BBS. Rest in peace.
Michae
March 14, 2024
Condolences to family and band Rest In Peace
Greg
March 14, 2024
When I met him he saw a picture of my grandson on the back of my phone. That´s immediately where the conversation went. Such a family man that a lot of people are going miss.
Martin Dainty
March 14, 2024
Just a great drummer, with a great sound.
RIP Brit
Kelli Jo
March 14, 2024
Rest In Paradise Brit you will be missed dearly.Keeping your family in our prayers always
Mike Waugh
March 14, 2024
R.I.P. Many concert memories. Sending ~~~~~~Good Vibes~~~~~~ to your family & friends
March 14, 2024
Many Wisconsin memories,brats and beers,and dam good jams,love and hugs,you made real music for the heart, miss you rip brit,see you bbc in bowler wi 3/16 to reminis with love the cheeseheads
Nick
March 14, 2024
Hearing him in BlackBerry Smoke
Joe mulgrew
March 13, 2024
He always made it look so effortless! An awesome drummer! Rest in peace
Tony Zupo
March 12, 2024
I´ve seen the boys live about 30 times but I will always remember the 2023 show in Charlottesville VA. It was the Whippoorwill album tour 10 anniversary. I knew Brit was not doing well and never expected him to be there. When the boys hit the stage and played that first lick, I saw Brit on the kit. As a 54 year old man I was like a little kid. I was so excited to see him there playing with the boys. I bought the shirt that night that has his likeness because I wanted to support him. He brought me so much happiness along with the rest of the band every time I saw them. From a guy who never got to meet him, I felt like he was a brother. That´s the way they all make your feel. I messaged Brit last year in my 55th birthday and just said to him that it was my BD. He sent me back a Happy Birthday and asked me to pray with him. I had no idea how far his sickness had advanced. I have those message screenshot and stared at them the day he died. I will always keep that prayer and pull it out whenever someone is going through a tough time. Thank you for the gift Brit. I will never forget you!! With a heavy heart but with the inspiration to know that I will see you again one day lord willing. Much love!!
Shelly Mondello
March 12, 2024
Best memory from July 17, 2012. It was in Nashville, TN. I was staying in a hotel that the band was actually in. I was in the elevator with Britt and Charlie. I didn't know who they were until after I went over to the tour bus and then saw them again at the pool. They were amazingly cool and gave us VIP tickets to Margaritaville for a live taping. I have followed the band ever since. Jamey Johnson came out too and did a song with them. Great memory. Amazing band. So sorry about Britt. May he rest in peace.
Mike Loftis
March 12, 2024
My condolences and continued prayers are with Brit Turners family, friends and the rest of BlackBerry Smoke! I never had the privilege of meeting Brit but have seen the band many times since 2011. Fly high Brother Brit Turner, you will be Sorely missed!
Douglas Meehan
March 11, 2024
Brit you are the true north and the heart beat of the smoke RIP my friend.
Gary Bradford
March 11, 2024
Rest In Peace Brother Brit.
Michael
March 11, 2024
Had the pleasure of seeing you guys open for ZZ Top in Huntington, WV many years ago! Great show to say the least! RIP brother!
Diane Dearing
March 11, 2024
Seeing Blackberry Smoke online. So unique and great. Sending prayers and hugs to the band, family and friends.
Gregory David Wilson
March 11, 2024
BRIT im at a loss for words,as a fellow cancer patient......i hope for safe journey to the pearly gates....you are loved worldwide.
Myles O'Dell
March 11, 2024
What can I say that hasn't been said? So many meet n greets in New York. Cutting room show was amazing and the time(Brief) that we spent talking was epic, Port Chester ,Pompano Beach FL , Teaneck NJ ,Fort Lauderdale and the list goes on. Thank you for always being a true person. Your at peace now and you will never be forgotten.
Robert Baum
March 11, 2024
He gave anyone motivation to do what they wanted and gave us the 'feel good that any music lover needs. Not only a friend but a Brother. We will forever love you and miss you.
Robert Baum
March 11, 2024
Brit gave a hilarious Blackberry Smoke shirt in Ashville Ohio that I will cherish forever. Our brother Richard and Brother Charlie also made that nite complete. I will make sure I hold Brit in my heart as family. Keep beating Smoke Brother! Love-Bob
Philip Smith
March 10, 2024
Thank you for the music and hope Brit! Rest in peace.
Debi Bell
March 10, 2024
I believe Brit left a lasting impression on everyone he ever met. Such a beautiful, gracious soul. Prayers of comfort for his warrior family, he remains forever by your side.
Kevin & Tammy Younger
March 10, 2024
The Turner family & BBS are in our prayers for peace & comfort. Fly high brother Brit! Thank you for the music and we will see you in heaven!
Mark Collier
March 10, 2024
Prayers to Brits family and band mates. Worked with Brit in late 80"s. Shared a lot of laughs and good times with him in and out of work. We would always hear him on WREK promoting his band . Atlanta and the world will miss such a genuine and charismatic person. He lived life to the fullest. Had a huge influence on so many , wish we had a world of Brits.
Mary Bealer
March 10, 2024
Funny story how Brit would make me laugh during some of my darkest days...We NEVER talked about music or the Band. It was always personal. One day we were texting about the Lager he created. He knew one of my daughters is a Career Bartender. I told him I didn't even know what an IPA is. He replied "It doesn´t taste like a burnt tire like most IPAs !" Doesn't that sound like our Brit?! Oh Dear, he is a prize, to be sure May God Bless you ALL who are grieving like I am
Paul Smith
March 9, 2024
Paul Smith
March 9, 2024
Paul Smith
March 9, 2024
Never got the chance to met Brit in person but seen him perform many times here in Pittsburgh. Always smiling and having fun doing what he did best. May our Lord God and savior forever hold you in the palms of his hands. Forever a fan.....Brother Smittysleepingdog
C Ram
March 9, 2024
We have followed BBS all over the country from some interesting intimate South Florida venues to the Red Rocks Amphitheater, always great shows. Brit was a great musician/drummer and person, the world will not be the same without him! We love BBS and Brit,
RIP brother!!!
Mark "Kenny" Muncher
March 9, 2024
... and there HE stood. Arms open wide.
In Christ forever my friend.
Rusty Plunkett
March 9, 2024
My condolences to Brits family to all brothers and sisters of Black Berry Smoke. Beat in peace Britt see ya down the road.
Karen OToole
March 8, 2024
Brit, I only got to meet you twice in my life, but we had a nice IG connection. Thank you for all the times we "talked" on IG and for all the awesome shows I got to attend. You are so missed already. I know you´re in Heaven, reconnected with your parents. I loved you Ike a younger brother. Love your friend & fan, Karen OToole
Kate Bell
March 8, 2024
One of the earthy musicians keeping great American fusion rock organic. So sorry for a loss too early to Brit's family, friends, fellows and fans.
J.P. Burns
March 8, 2024
Rest easy, Papa Bear. Always a smile, always made time for fans. One of the nicest people you could ever have met. God love ya, Brit.. Sincere condolences to the families, and the fans. Play on, brother.
Sharon Crosby
March 8, 2024
Thank you Brit for the friendship, music and memories over the years
Shine on you crazy diamond
Peg Murphy
March 8, 2024
sending my deepest heartfelt condolences to Brits family, bandmates and friends
Jim Lucas
March 8, 2024
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Frank Shipley
March 8, 2024
Brit taking the time to let me get picture with him at Red Rocks Amphitheatre after their set. Thank you Sir ! I memory I'll never forget.
mike hill
March 8, 2024
thanks for the music. they will always be apart of any music lover. love ya brit!
Karen Costantini
March 8, 2024
Karen Costantini
March 8, 2024
Karen Costantini
March 8, 2024
I first met Brit at a Meet & Greet in Traverse City, MI just a few months after my husband died. This was my first Blackberry Smoke concert. Brit chatted with me (I played drums in school & he asked me if I still played!). He gave me a really big bear hug & we took a selfie..... Got more hugs at every concert I was able to get to. We kept in touch thru Instagram, I always sent him funny stuff and drummer videos. The last time he answered me was just a few months ago saying that the treatments made him really tired... Was so happy I went to the Homecoming concert last year and got to get a hug and pic backstage. He was such an amazing guy, kind, funny and I will never forget him. Sincere prayers of comfort to Shannon, Lana, and big brother, Richard as well as Charlie, Paul, Brandon, Benji, Preston, the Black Bettys, crew.... fans and everyone whose lives were touched by our Brit. We Love you and always will.
Paula Slayton
March 7, 2024
My deepest heartfelt condolences goes out to Shannon, Lana, Richard all the band mates, all the crew, all the family as well as the Brothers and Sisters. Brit was admired by many, loved by those that knew him. Such an awesome guy! May Brit rest in Peace forever more. Much love Sister Gypsy Soul, Paula Slayton
Dinah Stults
March 7, 2024
Thank you, Brit. You made the world a better place and a lot more fun to live in.
Andrew Lill
March 7, 2024
To Brit (Shannon and Lana & the BBS family),
A heartfelt thank you for all of the memories and the joy that you bring to me. The music and the character of you and all of BBS is magnetic and makes you all feel like a family. There is much gratitude to you my friend! It was a sincere pleasure to spend some time with you after a few shows. To watch you work is exhilarating. To see you battle through this with the grit, humor and grace is inspiring. You all have gotten me through some very challenging times and what you do MATTERS! Brit had a life well lived. I am hopeful that Shannon, Lana and the BBS family will continue this noble work. We all need each other as it satisfies the soul and heart.
I am in awe of Brit and all of BBS. Character, humor, caring, love--that is what life is about. Thank you so very kindly.
One Love,
Andrew Lill
Lisa L Cure
March 7, 2024
Prayers for the family. Bbsmoke brothers and sisters. Lisa ;C.R.Cure.
KELLY JOHNSON
March 7, 2024
I got to smile 27 times in my life when the band would take the stage and I'd always wait for that moment when Richard and Brit acknowledged each other during that first song. As the rhythm duo holding it down, Richard would casually look or turn to the left and they would exchange a slight nod of the head as if to say "Isn't this groove we are creating the coolest thing ever?" It sure was. Brit positively impacted thousands of people thru his music, his art, his benevolence & charity, kindness to friends and complete strangers. He made a difference and I am grateful for his life. But I will always cherish being able to bear witness to those moments between 2 brothers. My heart goes out to all who loved him.
Ryan Vronch
March 7, 2024
Made me smile every time I hear Blackberry Smoke. And still does. Beat the skins in heaven brother.
Ryan Vronch.... Random SOB
Lisa and Jak
March 7, 2024
My first memory of Brit is 2015 Edinburgh meet and greet. I was so nervous and asked him for a moonshine! He laughed and said he would send me a jar over, which he did a few months later! A real, genuine guy with a huge heart and talent to match. You will be so so missed Brit. Fly high and shine bright brother. All my love to Shannon, Lana, Richard and the boys xxx Lisa and Jak xxx
Kim Hurst
March 7, 2024
He could really play the drums and you could tell he loved doing so, it was an honor to see him play and a very enjoyable concert. Rest in peace and keep drumming, God always needs a drummer. Sincerely, Kim Elseg Hurst
Eugene Guthrie
March 7, 2024
God bless , the entire Turner
Family
Rest in peace Brother Britt
And Bang on your Drum all day
Julie R Glidden
March 7, 2024
I will always remember the soft side of him....but in my mind he is behind those drums with sticks in hand the wind blowing thru his hair & a huge sparlin' smile on his face, that's our Brother Brit his memory will sparkle forever!
Bob Johnston
March 6, 2024
God bless you Brit. We are all heartbroken that you´re not with us but you can rest easy now in Heaven. Your music will stay with us forever and your family is your legacy as well. My prayers go out to Shannon, Lana, Richard, your entire family and all who love you. God bless.
I added this picture because you smiled at me when I took it & it´s how I´ll always remember you.
Elizabeth Bell
March 6, 2024
Rip Mr.Brit
Sean
March 6, 2024
Love you Brit, Thank you for being a great friend to so many of us. You will always be remembered
Pam Taylor
March 6, 2024
Been following BBS for about 12 years. Each one of the band members have a special talent that they show time after time at each show. Brit will be greatly missed. It feels like loosing a family member. Sending prayers for peace and comfort to his family and friends.
Carson Loveless
March 6, 2024
Condolences to the turner family
Alton J. Duderstadt
March 6, 2024
I've met Brother Brit on many occasions. His music and BBS changed my life. Changed my direction and changed me. I've been a drummer for 40 years and there is [and never will be] another Brit [or BBS]. He was kind, fun to be around, generous, as cool as the Artic, and on my 10-ten drummer list of all time. We lost a great musician...but...he will live on through our memories and music until the end of time. My sincere love, respect, and condolences to his family, BBS, BBS Brothers & Sisters, and for all who loved him. Forever he will rock our hearts. God Speed You Borther Brit. The Lord needed a drummer...and he got the very best of us.
Steve Weidman
March 6, 2024
God bless his family, keep strong and know he is everywhere his memory remains. Blackberry Smoke music got me through my cardiac rehab at age 58. Now a huge fan.
Stephen & Robin Hill
March 6, 2024
I have followed this band & Britt for 20 years. Being a drummer myself I have changed my style because of him. I will continue to follow band& want to say Britt will be surely missed. The rhythm of his soul will go on with his sisters & brothers of Blackberry smoke.
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