Paula Mary McCrary Turner

Paula Mary McCrary Turner, 78, passed away on February 6, 2026, at home surrounded by her family. She was born on March 29, 1947, in Huntsville, AL to the late Ollie and Ersie McCrary. As the devoted wife of Rev. Eugene Turner, their union of 61 years provided a testimony of enduring love and commitment. Together they built a legacy rooted in faith, family, and devotion to God. They relocated in the mid 70's and started their journey in Lexington, KY.

Paula was the proud mother of five daughters: Debra Jones (Jonathan), Irma Turner, Dr. Cheryl Mitchell (Thomas), Charmisha Wingate (Quintin), and ReShanda Turner. She was the cherished grandmother of eight: Bryan Clay, Brandon Turner (Rebecca), Quintin Wingate II, Ebony Cowans, Alexis Derricotte (Johnny), Corey Turner, Jordan Yates, Braxton Webb, and five bonus grandchildren, Delisha Poindexter, Jobias Jones, Nathaniel Jones, Audreana Jones, and Christian Jones. She was the beloved great-grandmother of Malcolm and Miles Turner, who held a special place in her heart, along with her other great-grandchildren who brought her joy.

She also leaves to cherish her memory a brother, Ollie Horton, a cousin-brother, Willie McCrary (Ann), sister-in-law Edna Turner Rich, all of Huntsville, AL, and a brother-in-law, James Turner (Alberdia) of Cleveland, OH. In addition to her immediate family, Paula lovingly embraced others as her own by opening home to extended family, church family, and all those God placed in her life. She shared a special bond with many, including Walker Webb, Jr., Tasha Byrd, Ronald Turley, Frazier Oldham, Tameka Clark, Ashley Webb, Monica Mobley, Frances Lawson, Bernita Taylor, Quisha Ray, Harry Lawson, Debbie Roberts, Jerald Alford, Stephanie Jackson, Earlene Brown, Kurt and Donna Ackerman, the COF Family, Cathy Taylor, and countless others who will always remember her the way she made them feel.

In addition, Paula leaves a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who will always be grateful for her love. She also had many "sixth daughters" whom she embraced as her own, and each knew just how much they meant to her.

She was preceded in death by her brother Lorenzo Horton, loving aunts, uncles, and other relatives, as well as angel grandbaby, Frazier "Trey" Oldham III.

Professionally, Paula worked in healthcare for over 40 years including UK Healthcare, Lexington Clinic, and retired from St. Joseph Healthcare. She had a love for cardiology and worked with doctors who sought her out to provide a safe space for their patients.

For 35 years, she faithfully served as the First Lady of Second Independent Missionary Baptist Church. She was a pillar of strength, encouragement, and compassion within the congregation where she led by example, uplifted others in prayer, and walked daily in faith. From singing in the choir, hosting special days as a chairperson, cooking, or making her infamous "Church Tea," Paula was consistently filling in the gaps wherever she was needed. Her life was a beautiful reflection of service, love, and steadfast faith. Paula will be remembered for her gentle spirit and the love she gave so freely.

In addition to her commitment to the church, Paula was active in the Howard's Creek District Association and minister wives' auxiliaries. She was a loving and caring soul who touched countless lives with her kindness and wisdom. If she made you a cake or cooked one of her soulful meals, you were officially welcomed in the family. To know her was to be loved by her, and her nurturing spirit made special.