Tom Turner

1932 - 2016

TURNER Tom Turner, Devoted husband, loving father, grandfather and faithful servant of the Lord, went to his heavenly home on March 18, 2016. Tom was born on May 11, 1932. He grew up in Eastanollee, Georgia. He married his high school sweetheart and love of his life Fredia Waddell in 1950. Following his military service in the Air Force, he attended Furman University and received his Bachelor's degree. He continued his education at Florida State University where he earned his Master's degree. Tom worked for the State Welfare Department before entering the ministry. He along with his dear friends Charlie Richards and Charles Beardon, started Trinity Carpet Mill. He also served in the Georgia State Legislature as a State Representative. Tom had the privilege to serve on several medical and financial boards. He most loved being a pastor and served at the following churches: Spring Place Baptist Church, Smyrna Baptist Church, Eton Baptist Church all in Chatsworth, GA and Eastwood Baptist Church in Marietta, GA. One of his great joys was starting the Singles Professional Class at First Baptist Church, Jacksonville, FL. He also pastored Oak Harbor Baptist Church in Jacksonville. God was gracious in allowing Tom to spend his last two Sundays in the pulpit, preaching at Forest Blvd. Church. Tom was predeceased by his wife of 64 years, Fredia Turner, parents Mr. and Mrs. George Turner, and sister Eloise Nichols. He is survived by his daughter, Julia Weeks, daughter and son-in-law Crystal and Hy Mixson, grandchildren, Jason, Jordan and Katherine, plus many cousins, a niece, a nephew and numerous friends that are like family. Our dad loved life and loved people. He lived a life pleasing to Christ. He was kind to everyone and treated all he met with the love of Jesus. His compassion, generosity and Christian love has impacted our lives and the lives of many others. He will be missed more than words can express. In lieu of flowers, we encourage charitable donations to Calvary Children's Home, 1430 Lost Mountain Rd., Powder Springs, GA 30127 or Paul Anderson Youth Home, P.O. Box 525, Vidalia, GA 30475. Family will receive friends 5:30 to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 23rd at First Baptist Church of Atlantic Beach, 1050 Mayport Rd. A Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, March 24th in Beaches Memorial Park, 1500 Main St., Atlantic Beach, 32233. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date in GA. Services under the direction and care of Quinn-Shalz Family Funeral Home