Mrs. Bernice Turner

Mrs. Bernice Horne Turner was born on June 21, 1934, in Norwood, NC, to the late Missouri and Mandy Mininall Horne. She peacefully departed this life on October 22, 2025.
Bernice received her education in the Stanly County Schools and graduated from Norwood Colored School, where she excelled as an All-Star basketball player. She accepted Christ at an early age and was a faithful servant of the Lord throughout her life.
A devoted and longtime member of First Emmanuel Baptist Church in High Point, NC. Bernice lovingly served as "Mother of the Church." Over the years, she was an active participant in several ministries, including the Missionary Circle, Flower Committee, Pastor's Aide, and Sunday School. She also took it upon herself to ensure her senior friends had transportation to church, demonstrating her heart for service and community.
Bernice worked more than 30 years at P. Lorillard Tobacco Company in Greensboro, NC. Outside of her work and church, she was known for her impeccable style and love for fashion. She had an extensive collection of fine hats that she often paired with high heels, exquisite accessories, and gorgeous suits. Shopping brought her great joy, and she carried herself with grace and elegance wherever she went.
She valued keeping her mind sharp by completing word search and puzzle books. Above all, Bernice was a pillar of strength for her family. Bernice was the Matriarch of the Family. She made her family a priority, supporting them in all their endeavors and especially cherishing time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Bernice was preceded in death by her parents, Mandy and John Ballard; her son, Gerald Turner; brothers, Clifton and McKenzie Ballard; and sisters, Rev. Lena Mae Benjamin and Dianne Ballard.
She leaves to cherish her memory: a devoted son, John Turner (Cheryl) of Charlotte, NC; a loving daughter, Rosa Simpson (James) of High Point, NC; one sister, Jenetha Ballard of Badin, NC; and one brother, Jerry Ballard (Geraldine) of High Point, NC; she is also survived by five grandchildren, John Turner Jr. of Greensboro, NC; Cara Elaine Turner Gripper (Joseph) of Charlotte, NC; Renee Simpson of High Point, NC; Matthew Simpson of High Point, NC and Sharon Little of High Point, NC; eight great-grandchildren, Greyson Turner, Harper Gripper, Nova Gripper, Rhiley Gripper, Robert James Erwin, Dallas McLendon, Julian Erwin, and Na'Sir Little; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.
Bernice will be remembered for her kindness, unwavering faith, elegant style, love for her family, and the legacy of strength and grace she leaves behind.
Funeral service will be held Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. at First Emmanuel Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Carolina Biblical Gardens. The family will receive friends at the church from 11:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.
Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.