Thomas Allen Turner

Thomas Allen Turner, 81, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 19, 1944, in Alamance County to the late Howard Lee Turner and Margaret Lee Turner and was the loving husband to Mary Wallace Turner who survives.

After dedicating more than 40 years of his career to Burlington Industries, Thomas retired, but his passion for life continued to flourish. He was known for his outgoing personality, always ready with a smile and an encouraging word. His warmth and caring nature made a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Thomas was an avid sports fan, proudly cheering for the Atlanta Braves and the UNC Tar Heels, whose games he enjoyed watching and attending. He especially enjoyed those games that he shared with his son, where they both served as ushers at the UNC Basketball and Football games. His love for coaching extended beyond the sidelines; he relished the memories created through playing and coaching baseball and softball.

In addition to his love for sports, Thomas found joy in nature. He delighted in playing golf, fishing, and visiting the beach and mountains, always seeking new adventures and experiences with his loved ones.

He was a proud member of Glencoe Baptist Church, having previously been affiliated with Brookwood Baptist Church, and his faith was a cornerstone of his life. Thomas will be remembered not only for his incredible support and love for his family but also for the simple joys he relished in life.

Thomas is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Mary Wallace Turner, who was by his side throughout their beautiful journey together. He leaves behind a proud legacy and their cherished children, Dwayne Turner and his significant other, Kellie Capps, and Melissa "Missy" Ray along with her significant other, Sammy Watkins; his grandchildren that he adored, Weston Ray, Tucker Ray, and Cassie Turner, who will carry on his legacy of love and kindness; his siblings, Sandra King, Jamey Turner, and Patricia Davis, along with several nieces and nephews, and his feline companion, Simba, who he affectionately referred to as his "D-Cat." Thomas has now been reunited with his parents and a brother, David Turner.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Finnegan at Cone Health Cancer Center at ARMC and to his nurses and staff for all their wonderful care that was shown to Thomas during his illness and treatments; and to the Hospice nurses for all their support, loving care and compassion that was shown to Thomas and to their family during his illness.

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Thomas will be held at 1:00pm Monday, October 20, 2025 at Glencoe Baptist Church by Pastor Darrell Massey, with the burial to follow at Alamance Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Monday prior to the service from 11:30am to 12:45pm at Glencoe Baptist Church and at other times at the residence.

Memorials may be made to Glencoe Baptist Church, 2556 Glencoe Street, Burlington, NC 27217. You may send condolences to the family online at www.lowefuneralhome.com.