Mark Anthony Turner

Mark Anthony Turner was born in 1961 at Elmhurst Hospital in Queens, New York. He spent his early childhood in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, lovingly raised by his grandmother, Emma. At the age of seven, he returned to New York, where he later graduated from Lowell High School in 1979.

In 1980, Mark proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. During his 12 years of service, he became a combat veteran of two conflicts-Beirut, Lebanon, and Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada. His military career took him around the world, fueling his deep love for service and country. It was during this time that he also forged a lifelong friendship with Hans Pridgett, who would become his best man at his wedding and steadfast friend.

Following his honorable service, Mark continued his career as a recruiter, first for the Marines and later in civilian life for various technical schools. Despite being a 100% disabled veteran, his relentless work ethic and dedication never wavered. In 2006, he began a new chapter with the United States Government, joining the Social Security Administration in Philadelphia, where he served as a Unit Supervisor overseeing 27 employees-a role he took great pride in.

Mark's faith guided him throughout his life. He joined Second Baptist Church in Long Branch, NJ, where he was ordained as a Deacon in 2007. There, in 2002, he met the love of his life, June. His spiritual journey continued with further studies at Monmouth Bible Institute, from which he graduated with honors. In 2017, he became a member of First Baptist Church in Belmar under the leadership of Rev. Dr. James A. Jackson, Jr. Mark served faithfully as Vice Chairman of the Diaconate Ministry and as a spiritual advisor to both the Men's and Youth Ministries. He forged lifelong friendship here with James, Bellamy and Ed. His brothers in both ministry and life.

Standing tall at 6'3", Mark's presence was felt in every room he entered-not only for his stature, but for his kindness, wisdom, and warmth. Known affectionately as a "gentle giant," he carried a heart as big as his frame.

Mark and June shared over 20 wonderful years of marriage, with their anniversary approaching in April. Together, they were blessed with their beloved daughters, Jordyn Michele and Jaidyn Marie-their initials standing for "June and Mark's Girls." He was the epitome of a "girl dad," ever devoted and endlessly supportive, always ready for any adventure his daughters dreamed up. The Turner family cherished memorable trips around the world-most recently, a two-week journey through the French and Italian Riviera. Even when braving the heat of Caribbean vacations, which he was never a beach person, Mark never complained-he was happiest seeing his family happy. He absolutely loved the 'Cousin' trip taken to New Orleans last fall.

Mark was an avid sports fan, a lifelong supporter of the New York Giants and New York Yankees. Though his teams often tested his loyalty, his devotion never wavered.

He was preceded in death by his great-grandmother Lillian Cruse; grandmother Emma Carassco; aunt Olivine Davis; uncles Tyronne, Enrique, and Joel; and his father Patrick Lewis.

Mark leaves behind a legacy of love and integrity cherished by his wife of 20 years, June Turner; his son, Mark Anthony II; his daughters, Jordyn Michele and Jaidyn Marie; his mother, Gloria Lewis; sister, Anna Marie Turner; brothers- and sisters-in-law Dwayne Terry and Victoria McCray, Kevin and Trina McCoy; sisters-in-law Karen Gallimore, Ellie Willoughby, Andrea Stokes, and Carmen Jones; and a host of nieces and nephews whom he loved deeply-a special bond with his nephew Jerome; and many cousins who loved him like a brother.

In addition to his human family, Mark found companionship in his beloved cat, Mr. Mayer Mittens, adopted from the Monmouth County SPCA where he proudly became a "cat dad."

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Marine Toys for Tots or the Monmouth County SPCA, both causes close to Mark's heart.

The Turner family extends their deepest gratitude for the many expressions of love, prayers, and support shared during this time. Mark's spirit, faith, and compassion will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Services are being entrusted to First Baptist Church of Belmar and Damiano Funeral Home. Services will be held on 01/31/2026 at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church, 410 Ninth Ave, Belmar, NJ 07719. A private entombment will be held at 10:30 AM on Monday, February 2, 2026 at Monmouth Memorial Park, Tinton Falls, NJ 07753.

The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link above.