William Martin Turner

Cornelius, North Carolina

November 20, 1940~ April 20, 2026

William Martin Turner, 85, of Cornelius, North Carolina, went to be with his Heavenly Father on April 20, 2026.

Bill was born on November 20, 1940, in Marion, South Carolina, to Martin and Myrtis Turner. He attended Furman University, where he majored in Business Administration and minored in Music. He was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon and played in the marching band.

He is survived by his wife Lucy (Meade) Turner. He is also survived by his former spouse, Linda (Storey) Reeves, and mother of his 3 children.

Bill was deeply involved in coaching his boys in youth sports. He served as President of Starclaire Athletic Association. He was also active in his church, where he served in the choir and as a deacon.

Bill worked in the apparel industry, joining Belk Store Services upon graduation from Furman in 1963. He moved to Charlotte, where he lived for 63 years. At Belk, he served in many capacities, including sales, marketing, and buying. After Belk, he worked in various roles for Troutman Industries and Kentucky Textiles.

Bill became a devoted UNC Tar Heels fan and rarely missed a football or basketball game—whether listening on the radio, watching on television, or attending in person. He also loved music of all kinds, including Motown, South Carolina beach music, classical music, and especially Christmas music. Bill’s greatest love was his family. Inspired by his love for Christmas, Bill wrote a children’s book, "The Christmas That Almost Wasn’t”, and dedicated it to his grandchildren.  

For the past 38 years, Bill was happily married to his wife Lucy. Together, they built a wonderful life on Lake Norman, sharing their home with countless rescue golden retrievers. They enjoyed traveling and many adventures with their beloved dogs.

In addition to his wife Lucy, Bill is survived by his sons: Marc (Lisa) of Tampa, Florida; Mike (Kristine) of Cary, North Carolina; and Chris (Kristi) of Cary, North Carolina; and his stepsons Bo Vaden (Suzanne) of Atlanta; and Meade Middleton of Atlanta; as well as twelve grandchildren.

One of Bill’s favorite Bible verses was John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 on Friday, May 1st in The Chapel at Davidson United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory can be made to Levine & Dickson Hosice House at 11900 Vanstory Drive, Huntersville, NC 28078.

The Turner Family have entrusted arrangements to Roseboro's Mortuary & Crematory.

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