Mr. James E. Turner

James E. Turner, son of the late William and Sevella Turner, was born on December 11, 1930, in Waverly, Tennessee.  He departed this life on April 3, 2026, in the home of his loving caregiver daughter, Janet T. Branch.  James E. Turner was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Doris Harris Turner; two daughters, Jamie Turner and Frances Bell; niece, Brietta Estes; four brothers and their spouses, Virgil Turner, James C Turner (Sara), Lloyd Turner (Myrtis), and Lester Turner; brother-n-law, William Estes; four sisters and their spouses, Lillian Thompson ( Jimmy ), Mary Oeth, Laura Laws ( William), and Rhoda Hart (Charles).

As a child growing up in Tennessee and later as an adult in Virginia, James demonstrated versatile gifts using his hands. He had a knack for mechanical engineering things across many areas. His natural talent, combined with training, helped perfect his work as a longshoreman in 1954 when he moved to Virginia.  In 1971, James opened and operated his own business, Turner's Mobile, a gas station and car mechanical shop. During his career as a master mechanic, he earned respect as a role model in the field. He was known for his versatility and skill in servicing both vintage and modern vehicles. Many people relied on James when something needed to be analyzed, built, diagnosed, replaced, or repaired in an automobile. Working on cars or other mechanical vessels was never just a job for James; it was his passion and love. James also enjoyed owning several Harley-Davidson motorcycles and riding them to return to Tennessee to visit his family and friends. His abilities inspired others to follow him, not only in his work but also in his life lessons, his love for family and friends, the significance of humor, and the integrity he showed in situations throughout his life. After James’ retirement in the late 1990s, his favorite pastimes included sitting outside in his overalls, drinking a Pepsi, talking about cars and motorcycles, and spending time with his wife, Doris, family, and friends who would stop by to “shoot the breeze,” and learn from him. James E. Turner's legacy will live on through the countless people he empowered and bestowed his love and kindness upon. James E. Turner departed this earth as " the last of the best, leaving to cherish their beautiful memories is his faithful and devoted daughter, Janet T. Branch; sisters and brother-in-law,  Ruth Estes, Stella Turner and George Harris (Renita);  three grandchildren, Jaye Turner (Quan), James D. Turner, and Monica Bradley; two great-grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchildren, a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends to include his chosen son , mentee and loyal comrade , Robert “Junie” Dawson.  

It is the desire of the Turner/ Branch families that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

The family of Mr. James E. Turner has entrusted his final care to C. C. Carter Funeral Home.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mr. James E. Turner, please visit our floral store.