Robert Turner

Robert E. Turner III, "Papa", devoted husband and loving father and grandfather, passed away Wednesday, October 15, 2014, at his home in Danville, Virginia, after a brief decline in health. Ed was born July 8, 1923 in Danville, a son of Robert E. Turner, Jr. and Lena Scott Stultz Turner. He was educated at Danville Military Institute and was privileged to work with his father in business, later with his father-in-law in business, and eventually operated his company as Robert E. Turner and Son, building contractor and land developer in Danville and Pittsylvania County. He was an avid gardener and enjoyed sharing the fruits of his labors with neighbors and family, as well as eagerly opening his garden to those in need. He was a former member of the Danville Home Builders Association and was a 32nd Degree Master Mason In Good Standing of Roman Eagle Lodge No. 122, Danville, Virginia. He served his country in the United States Army and specifically, in the European Theater for 28 months during World War II. On January 22, 1946, he married his childhood sweetheart, the true love of his life, Anne Alverson Turner, who predeceased him on July 4, 1990. They were members of Mount Vernon United Methodist Church. He is survived by his children, Anne Turner Pritchett and husband, Whitney Pritchett, Jean Turner Pritchett and husband, James Hodges Pritchett "Jim", Richard Michael Turner "Rick", his five grandchildren, Alston Scott Pritchett (Asa), Ashley Pritchett Davis (Jeff), Whitney Pritchett, Jr. (Elisabeth), Tracy Turner Swanson (Paul), Leslie Turner Curtis (Jason), six great-grandchildren, a brother, James M. Turner and a sister -in-law, Thelma Alverson. In addition to his parents and wife, he was predeceased by a son, Robert E. Turner, IV "Bob" on October 15, 1992, and by his sisters, Alice T. Ray, Anne T. Liveraunt, and Scott T. Gailey. Graveside services will be held Saturday, October 18, 2014, at 11 a.m. at Highland Burial Park, Danville, with the Reverend Dr. Robert Ramey officiating. The family will receive friends at the home of Anne and Whitney Pritchett, 441 Maple Lane.