Willard Gene Turner

Willard Gene Turner, age 84, of Kirby passed away on Wednesday, March 29, 2023 at CHI St. Vincent Hospital in Hot Springs. He was born January 2, 1939 in Forrester, Arkansas the son of Virgil and Bertha (O’Neal) Turner. Willard was a 1957 graduate of Kirby High School. He lived most of his adult life in the Houston area before moving back to Kirby in 1998 to live in the home where his parents last resided.  He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially the "little" ones that called him PawPaw, beekeeping, deer hunting, and fishing.   Willard was a faithful member of Elmore Hunting Club.  He was also a crafty carpenter who would always assist those in need with his detailed workmanship.  

Preceding him in death are his parents; brother, Waymon Turner and wife, Barbara of Malvern; sister, Noema Hoskins and husband, Coleman of The Woodlands, Texas; sister, Fern Knight and husband, Caroll of Crockett, Texas; former wife and mother to his only daughter, Bonnie Jeter of Tomball, Texas.

Survivors are his daughter, Laurie Strutz and husband, Michael of Pinehurst, Texas; brother, Wallace Turner and wife, LeeAnn of Newhope; sister, Faye Cargile and husband, Fred of Kirby; grandchildren, Kasie and Kenady Strutz of San Marcos, Texas, and  Karlee Strutz of Pinehurst, Texas; numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved very much; his dogs, Red and Shelby, T-Tom the cat, and his chickens.
Visitation will be Monday, April 3rd from 10:00am to 11:00am at Smith Family Funeral Home in Glenwood. Services will be Monday, April 3rd at 11:00am directly after the visitation with Brother Bert Brown officiating. Interment will follow at Bear Creek Cemetery in Kirby.

Pallbearers are Michael Strutz, Ronnie Bailey, Stephen Turner, Tyler Turner, Keith Hunter, Collin Hunter, Brant Abbott, and Allen “Bubbie” Cargile. 

The family would like to thank all friends for their prayers and support and extend an invitation to gather for lunch at Willard's home after the graveside service.   Arrangements are under the direction of Smith Family Funeral Home, Glenwood, 209 North Third Street, Glenwood, AR 71943.

Guest registry is at www.smithfamilycares.com.