Raymond Elmo Turner

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Mr. Raymond Elmo Turner, 91, of Blytheville, passed from this life Thursday, Dec. 1, 2011, at the Lakeside Nursing Center in Lake City. Born to Conn and Annie Myrtle Taylor Turner in Blytheville, he was a lifelong resident, of the Baptist faith and a Mason.

Raymond served his country with honor in the U.S. Army 32nd Infantry Medical Detachment during WW II and was the retired owner/operator of Raymond E. Turner's Piano & T.V. Repair. His ability to repair TVs and pianos was unique but he also would tune or repair fiddles, guitars, trumpets and other musical instruments. Raymond's love for music allowed him many opportunities to perform his talents. He was a violinist and an accomplished fiddle and guitar player. He played the violin sometimes live on KLCN radio and also played in country and western bands. His favorite song to play on the piano was Floyd Cramer's "Last Date" which he played when able at Elmcroft Assisted Living facility.

He was a devoted father but also a devoted husband of 62 years to Mildred Prince Turner who preceded him in death. A brother, Robert Turner, and a sister, Agnes Sue Turner. also preceded him.

He leaves his children, Paula A. and her husband Jack Derosso of Rockford, Ill., and Gary R. Turner of Blytheville;

Three grandchildren, Sheri Derosso, Kimberly Derosso Carlson and David Derosso; and

Six great-grandchildren, Michael Parris, Jason Parris, David Parris, Katie Carlson, Justin Carlson and Kristi Carlson.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Cobb Funeral Home Chapel with burial to follow in Elmwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends from noon until service time Wednesday at Cobb Funeral Home. The guest book may be signed at CobbFuneralHome.com