Gary Michael Turner

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Gary Michael Turner, who departed peacefully on June 19, 2025, after a prolonged period of illness, surrounded by his loving family.
Michael was born on March 26, 1981, to Barbara Jean (Cole) Turner and Gary Archie Turner. He grew up in Collinsville, VA, attending Carlisle School and graduating in 1999. He went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in Music Education from Charleston Southern University in 2003. After college, he had a vibrant career as an IT and cyber security specialist while also becoming a prolific singer/songwriter. He went on to release multiple singles as well as his solo album, "I Just Wanna Be Me," in 2010.
Beyond his professional life, Michael will be remembered by family and friends as an avid concert-goer, a devoted cat dad, and an empathetic friend. Whether you knew him as "Gary," "Michael," "Mike," or "Backstreet,"--you knew him as the person you could turn to in good times and bad. He always showed up with a song recommendation and a deeply meaningful gift (possibly a home-cooked meal or a Lego set).
Michael departed this life to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and is preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Reverend James Robert Cole Sr., his paternal grandmother, Geneva Johnson Turner, and his paternal grandfather, Archie Royal Turner.
Michael impacted many lives and is survived by his parents, Gary Archie Turner and Barbara Jean (Cole) Turner, his brother, Scott Cole Turner (Megan), his niece, Tirzah Turner, his nephew, Jude Turner, his maternal grandmother, Barbara Martin Cole, his former wife, Amber Hodges Turner, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins as well as many close friends and fans.
A memorial service will be held in Charleston, SC, with details to follow.