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LAURIE TURNER Obituary
Mrs. Turner was a native of Richmond, VA the daughter of Barbara McCray and the late John Hill. A devoted and loving mother, mentor, friend, and spiritual confidant, Laurie was a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church, Petersburg, VA, and more recently Salem Baptist Church in Emporia, VA.
Mrs.Turner is survived by her husband, Larry Turner of Emporia, VA; two children, a daughter, Avonda Turner of Chesterfield, VA, and a son, Aaron Turner of Oakland, CA; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Services will be held 11:00 A.M., Wednesday, November 25, 2020 at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 418 Halifax Street, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Dr. Robert A. Diggs, Sr., Pastor. The interment to follow at the Turner Family Cemetery.
Please follow the CDC and State of Virginia guidelines.
J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for LAURIE TURNER
Sponsored by J M Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. - Petersburg.
Anthony Lee
December 2, 2020
Dear Larry, Avonda and Aaron.
As you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Anthony, Andree and Antwan Lee
Regina & Jasmine Tucker
December 1, 2020
Dear Larry, Avonda and Aaron. Jasmine and I send our deepest sympathy to you and the entire family during this time in your lives. Continue to cherish the wonderful memories of Laurie. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. May the love of God continue to bless and comfort you.
Larry and Pearl Cheeks
November 28, 2020
Our hearts are deeply saddened by the passing of Mrs. Laurie Turner. We will always remember her lovely smile and kindness. There are many fond memories of her as a devoted mother of Avonda and Aaron as they attended Ettrick Elementary School. It was a pleasure working with Laurie who was a dedicated volunteer cheerleading coach with Ettrick Youth Sports for several years. We will always cherish the wonderful memories of Laurie. God bless you and keep you all.
With Sincere Sympathy
Larry & Pearl Cheeks and Family
Jasmine Tucker
November 27, 2020
My prayers are with Mrs . Turner family she was one of my favorite Teachers “Coach Turner” we would call her .But I’ve known her since I was a child and she has always been kind and loving towards me every time I saw her . I’m saddened about this but I know to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord . She will definitely be missed .
BRIEANNA BOSWELL
November 25, 2020
I am praying for all who knew and loved Mrs. Turner, most of all Vonnie, Aaron & Mr. Turner. Here are some words that I want to share about Mrs. Turner's influence on my life...
Classy.
Fashionable.
Young.
Beautiful.
Role Model....
Mrs. Turner... you were all of these things to me, and more.
The mother of one of my very best friends...
My introduction to the Divine Nine
A beautiful example of a Loving Wife...
Black Excellence.
Your Presence was full of Grace, Joy and Respect in every moment I shared with you.
I don’t think you know how much your affirmations of my mothering meant to me...
Thank you for being a fan and cheerleader for me as a baker.
I am blessed to have had you as one of my second mothers.
Not only did your life lead to me having one of the greatest treasures of my life, in Vonnie, my lifelong friend, my person, but I felt loved by you personally.
I have always been proud to know and be connected to your family and I am so thankful I’ve gotten to grow up with you as an example of a beautiful, bold & brilliant Black woman.
I love you Mrs. Turner.
You’ve done an amazing job raising and loving your children and leave behind strong and determined, kind and creative young people who will carry your legacy far.
You were, you are, oh so loved.
Brie
Torri White
November 25, 2020
Sending prayers for you and your family Larry during this time. May God keep you and comfort you.
KATHLEEN ROBINSON
November 25, 2020
Larry, Vonnie and Aaron,. My heart is truly heavy. I loved Laurie as my sister. Such a kind and caring person. I pray for your comfort.
Renee Williams
November 25, 2020
Mona, sending a light of peace and love to you and your family for your dear sister Laurie.
Darryl Griffin
November 25, 2020
To the family of Laurie Turner,
From the family of Darryl and Cassandra Griffin, please accept our sincere condolences. We have fond memories of her given our times spent with Laurie and Larry over the years. Laurie you will truly be missed. May God continue to watch over the family of Laurie Turner.
Brenda Spratley
November 25, 2020
Deacon Larry and Children after a loss it can feel like staring at an empty chair. Empty, it seems without purpose. But that is your seat. That chair is for you. Its purpose is to bring you back to the table. The Sting of God transitioning your Wife and Mom will last forever. There will be Joy and pain, sunshine and rain the days ahead. But do remember that, 'God Got You!' He will bring you Comfort ever second,minute,hour,week,month and year. Don't let go of His Hands. God can do everything Except Fail. May Laurie RIP and all her memories be a Blessing to you all... Brenda Spratley of D19 CSB
Wanda Harris Talton
November 25, 2020
Well my cousin, you've gone to a higher home! May you R. I. P.!
Tyra Hicks
November 24, 2020
My condolences to the Turner Family from the Hicks and Jackson Family. We are Praying you all strength during this time.
Joyce E. Harris
November 24, 2020
To Deacon Turner and Family:
The Harris family is saddened to hear of Sis Laurie’s passing. We pray for your healing and peace in the coming days as you share your wonderful memories. I enjoyed hanging out with her during weekly “Princess Praise Dance” practices, assisting however I could. Besides learning all the praise dance moves, having fun on outings, etc., the girls will never forget Galatians 5: 22 – 24. She talked about this passage and had them recite it during each practice. They will remember her sweet spirit and her leadership by example, showing each of the character traits referenced in the passage.
Keeping you in prayer,
Theoria Turner
November 24, 2020
I pray a prayer of comfort for the family. I met Deaconess Laurie through her husband Larry who I have worked with for years. Larry always talked about his wife with a smile on his face. You could see the love that he has for her. I pray God bring the family peace during this trying time. She will be missed and that is no doubt. I am sure that I will still hear wonderful stories about her as she will live on through her family. Heaven has an Angel that is no longer suffering here on this earth. Be blessed family and remember God is closer than he has ever been in your life during this time.
Jill Van Leesten
November 24, 2020
Laurie you are missed and loved by so many people. Our VSU AE AKA Line Sister, we love you. May you Rest In Peace.
Felicia Kershaw
November 23, 2020
To Laurie’s family,
I am so very sorry to hear of Teacher Laurie’s passing. I first met Laurie when she taught my daughter Tierra during her preschool years, at the Center for young Children located on Virginia State University campus. She was a wonderful teacher and the student’s loved her. My daughter also sends her condolences. You all are all in my thoughts and prayers. May God give you peace and strength during this time.
Felicia Kershaw and Tierra Kershaw Hawley
Margaret Thompson
November 23, 2020
To the famil:y:
So sorry to hear that Laurie has passed! Such a sweet lovely person. She touched my heart when I first met her. She will be sorely missed. My prayers go out to the family.
Jeanne Williams
November 23, 2020
Ms McCray, Mona and Larry
My prayers are with you always. May you be comforted by the sweet memories of your child, sister and wife. Gods peace be with you during this time and forever more.
Jeanne Browne Williams
Fenton L. Bland, Jr.
November 23, 2020
In this difficult time, may God hold you close to His heart, where He can feel your deepest loss, and fill you with His deepest love. May your memories bring you comfort.
Felicia, Michael & Myles Kelsey
November 23, 2020
To the Turner Family,
May God wrap his loving arms around you and your family to comfort you in this season. My family was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of your Wife, Mother and Daughter.
Mavourene Robinson
November 23, 2020
Aunt Barbie, Larry, Vonda and Aaron, I am so sorry for the loss of Laurie on this earth, because she had a smile that lit up every place she entered. Boo's compassion, kindness and unwavering faithfulness to her husband and children are now rewarded. When we became adults, she would always correct me when I shouted "Boo Boo" in public. Even as she would say "Pooh, we are too old for that now," with that beautiful smile on her face. For me, she'll always be my Boo Boo, as beautiful on the inside and she was externally and the cousin I wanted to grow up to be just like. Love you all, Pooh
Julia Wooden
November 23, 2020
My condolences to the Turner family for the loss of a wife, mother, daughter. I worked under Teacher Laurie at VSU as one of the teachers. She instilled values and gave children much love and laughter. May God comfort you and keep you through your sorrowful grief. Put your trust in the Lord and he will encourage your heart.
Wilimena (Peaches) Schools
November 23, 2020
My condolences to the family of Laurie. I met Laurie through my niece Arleen and was saddened to hear of her passing. May time help you heal and bring you peace.
Christine Gibson
November 23, 2020
Monica, Mom and Family
Know that while you will miss her earthly life she now resides with her heavenly Father living with no pain. Weeping may endure for the night but joy surely arrives in the morning.
The campus of VSU will miss the mentoring, the smiles and the years of cheers from Laurie
Godspeed
Clementine and Charles Cone
November 22, 2020
To Deacon Turner and family,
You have our heartfelt sympathy. Laurie was a sweet, talented, lovely, woman of God. Be encouraged by the love and concern extended from all those whose lives she touched. We are praying for your strength and comfort.
Marveen Robinson
November 22, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Our family is deeply saddened of the passing of your wife, mother,daughter and many other relatives. Keep your hands in the Lord's hands.
Zelda and Morrisa Tucker-Dugger
November 22, 2020
To the Turner family, Teacher Laurie was loved by so many children at the Child Care Center on the campus of VSU. She nourished each one of those little toddlers with her love and teaching skills. My daughter was a student that absorbed her techniques of teaching. I know that when she gets to heaven her class will be packed. My prayers are with you all. We shall remember all the great things that she did for our kids and others. May God continue to bless and watch over you all.. Respectfully,
Marsha Miller
November 22, 2020
We know her as Teacher Laurie, she taught/ took care of my children at the VSU Center for Young Children. My children are 35 and 34 years old now, and are upstanding and wonderful people. I know that Teacher Laurie was indeed a major part in causing their success. Rest in Perfect Peace, Teacher Laurie, We will never forget your beauty and your kindness you shared with the world. Praying Peace and Love to her family during this very difficult time. Marsha Miller
Linda Grant
November 22, 2020
To the Turner family;
Our deepest condolences, Laurie was an amazing and kind person. Jayla, my granddaughter was one of the Princess Praise Dancers that Laurie directed. Laurie was the best. So sorry for your loss. May God and the caring love and thoughts from others help you to get through your sorrow.
Linda, John & Jayla Grant
Charlenia M. Herring
November 22, 2020
To The Family of Laurie Turner: I was saddened to hear of the transition of Laurie. My granddaughter Leniah and I send our condolences. Leniah was a member of the Princess Praise Dancers under the direction of Laurie before Laurie became ill. Laurie was a sweet, kind, and beautiful person. May God comfort, strengthen, and give you peace during your time of bereavement.
Anna M. Yates
November 22, 2020
To Larry and your Family - My deepest sympathy for you all loss many prayers.
Constance Greene
November 22, 2020
To The Turner Family:
We are so sorry for your loss. In addition we will remember her spontaneous expression of praise to God through her dancing, which she shared with the youth. May she continue to praise God through dance in heaven.
May God Bless, Comfort and give you Peace.
Mr.& Mrs James and Constance Greene
Bridget Monroe Treadwell
November 21, 2020
To the Family of Laurie Turner: I was saddened to hear of the transition of Laurie. Laurie was no. 7 and I was no. 8 on our AKA Sorority Line. One of the things I remember about us being on line was that Laurie was sweet. She never let nothing bother her and she stayed calm the entire time we were on line. Although we have not spoken in many years, I feel a deep connection to Laurie as I will Miss No. 7...THE COOL, THE CALM, THE ALWAY COLLECTED LAURIE. MOST OF ALL I WILL NEVER FORGET HER BEAUTIFUL SMILE.
Kamala Allen(Benjamin)
November 21, 2020
Sending Prayers of Peace and Comfort.
Deaconess Debra Harris
November 21, 2020
To Deacon Larry and Family
My heart skipped a beat when I heard about Laurie's transition. I viewed her as a beautiful Sister-in-Christ. She used her gifts for TRUTH, her voice for KINDNESS, her hands were BUSY doing the LORD's work. We could always count on Laurie's support as she lifted up our youth and lived the life that she taught. I know that GOD has lifted her up and I pray that the family is encouraged knowing how well she has served the Master. Well done my Sister, you are now at peace.
Yolanda Richey
November 21, 2020
To Larry & Family,
My heart was deeply saddened to hear of my dear friend's passing. I was honored to work along side of Laurie for many years, as we shared our love and passion for early childhood and parent education throughout the Central Virginia communities. I will always remember her sincere and loving approach to working with families and the laughter and fun she brought to our work environment and friendship. She always spoke so lovingly of her husband and children, making it so clear how much she adored you all. There is no question in my mind that she is also sharing her love for dance in the heavens, smiling down on each of us with the beauty she always gracefully illuminated. Laura is and always will be sunshine - she touched so many lives and I am so glad to have known her. May God allow your hearts to be comforted by all the loving memories I am sure you hold.
Lovingly,
Yolanda Richey
Sharon Johnson-ElMouhib
November 21, 2020
To Larry, Avonda, Aaron & Family,
My heart is heavy as I write this tonight because sweet memories are flowing through my mind of someone I watch go from a young girl to a middle schooler, to a teen at John Marshall High and a young woman at Virginia State and into womanhood. She was my sister's best friend, she was family. What I remember the most about Laurie were her soulful eyes, eyes that seemed to have been here before, kind and loving eyes, and her infectious laugh. She loved being my sister's friend and my sister loved being her's and I am thankful to God that they had such a lifelong friendship to draw strength from in times of sorrow and success. I know these days and weeks will be hard because I have sat where you now sit and I know the tears will flow. However hard it may be remember this in the days ahead, that the world is a better place because Laurie lived, loved, smiled, laughed, cared, showed compassion, and gave everything her all! How lucky we all were to have been fortunate to have been blessed to know her. God bless and I will be praying and thinking of you always.
Sharon Johnson El Mouhib (Ethel)
Donald Johnson
November 21, 2020
To Larry & Family,
I was so heartbroken to hear of Laurie's transition the other day and there are no words that I could say that would ease your pain. I knew Laurie as a dear friend of my sister and our family, the Johnson family enjoyed watching Laurie and my sister Ethel Sharleen grow from little girls into women. She was such a wonderful person and I am praying for comfort for you all as you navigate through this trying time. May God bless and keep you and her memory be a blessing to all who loved and knew her.
Sincerely,
Donald W. Johnson
November 20, 2020
To Larry and family,
May GOD comfort and keep you during your time of loss. Please hold on to God's unchanging hand. Laurie was a spiritual warrior. She loved the Lord with all her heart. Her footprints will be forever remembered. I am honored that we shared the same sisterhood together and that we grew close as family. I am forever thankful for the time she spent with Morgan.
Larry and family, hold your head up high. There is no more suffering and no more pain. She is praise dancing in heaven. Rest in Peace. You earned your wings.
Sisterly,
Tracie Kirkland
Fondly,
Antrynette Walker-Hall
Ernest and Fran Jones
November 20, 2020
Condolences to the Turner family. Our hearts are heavy after hearing of the loss of our beloved deaconess sister. You will forever be in our hearts. ❤
Keith Granderson, Jr
November 20, 2020
To Mr. Turner, Avonda, Aaron and family,
We’re praying for you all. Please know if we could do anything please let us know we give our deepest condolences in the passing of Mrs. Laurie. Lisa Gill, Draykar & KJ Granderson
Lindsey Robinson Brown
November 20, 2020
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Tony Brown & family will continue to pray for the family Fond memories of Lauri you will alwYs have. GOD bless
Mike Wingard
November 20, 2020
I will continue to pray for the Turner family as I reflect back some 36 years ago when I first met Larry and Laurie on the campus of Virginia State University. She was like a sister to me based on the fact that Larry and I were very close. She was sweet inside and out as she exemplified what a real African American women ought to display to others. We will meet again one day so rest and enjoy heaven my sister.
Joe and Crystal Craig
November 20, 2020
Laurie was simply a beautiful person! Joe and I was so looking forward to a few vacations and fun time with her and Larry. I will always cherish the few times we had together, especially our 2019 family reunion. As I told Larry, I’m sure Laurie is praising God and enjoying her glorified body. My heartfelt condolences to Larry, Erin, and Vonnie. I pray that God would wrap you in His peace, joy and comfort.
Sylvia Leftwich
November 20, 2020
Larry and family, I was deeply saddened by the passing of your dear wife. We worked together at the Child Development Lab. She was a super teacher and loved by all she taught.
God has another Angel in heaven.
Sylvia S. Leftwich
Greensboro, NC
November 20, 2020
R.I.P. AUNT BOO...
LOVE TIO & THE BOYS
Belinda Piercy
November 19, 2020
Larry and Family,
Laurie taught my children wnen they attended the VSU Laboratory on campus. She was an exemplary teacher who will never be forgotten.
Remember death leaves a heartache no one can heal, but love leaves a memory that no one can steal. Hold on to the precious memories of such a beautiful person.
Tyeast Lee
November 19, 2020
My condolences to the Turner family. Laurie was truly a beautiful soul.
Rebecca Branch-Griffin
November 19, 2020
I offer my sincere condolences to the Family of Laurie. Please find comfort in knowing that she is resting in the arms of a Loving Savior
Monique Delbridge
November 18, 2020
Cousins Barbara, Larry, Avonda & Aaron,
I am so sorry for your loss. I am grateful for the interest Cousin Boo took in me as a young girl and will remember her warmth, kindness and generosity always. Love, Cousin Monique
Gretchen Parker
November 18, 2020
Larry and Children ,
I am saddened to learn of your loss. Losing the one you love is so hard....And SHE was the best. I am truly very sorry.
Willa Robinson
November 18, 2020
Larry, So sorry to hear of the passing of your dear sweet wife Laurie. Praying for you and your family. Laurie and my Kristen were sisters in Christ and she is heartbroken . We loved Laurie!
Stay strong and God will continue to Bless you.
Willa Robinson
Raleigh, NC
Howard and Glennis Marshall
November 18, 2020
Larry and family,
We are so very sorrowful to learn of Laurie's passing. God has a beautiful soul. May He keep you and the kids in His hands during this time.
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