James Michael "Jim" Turner

James Michael Jim Turner, 44, of Gaston, NC and formerly of Roanoke Rapids and Emporia, VA, went to his eternal rest on Saturday, November 19, 2011, after a twelve year valiant battle with brain cancer.

Jim, also fondly known as Jimbo, was preceded in death by his father, Michael W. Mike Turner, of Emporia, VA. Jim accepted Christ as his savior at the age of 18 and was baptized at Main Street Baptist Church in Emporia. He graduated from Greensville County High School and immediately joined the work force. He loved to work with his hands and be creative, whether in construction or in painting and drawing his own art. Jim had a great passion for roller skating, and built quite a reputation as one of the fastest and most daring skaters in the area.

Jim is survived by his son, David Michael Turner of Gaston, and a daughter, Jill Marie Turner, of Parkton, NC. He is also survived by his mother, Joyce Bunch Turner Willis, his step-father George H. Willis, his brother Bill Turner and his wife Bobbie of Richmond, VA; three step-brothers, George Jay Willis, Jr. and his wife, Renee, Jeff Willis and his wife Karen, and Kevin Willis and wife Chrystal, all of Virginia Beach, VA. He is also survived by four uncles, Robert, Perry, and Joel Turner of Suffolk, VA and Kenny Bunch of Kenly, NC, and one aunt, Rose Jory of Suffolk, VA.; nephews, Blake Turner, Matthew, William, and Mikey Willis; nieces, Meghan Arndt, Shannan Rapovy, Megan, Brooke, Jessica, and Jenna Willis; a precious great-niece, Cadence Ardnt, and thirteen cousins.

A celebration of Jims life will be held at Community Freewill Baptist Church, 1500 Washington St. Ext., Weldon, NC at 2:00 pm, Sunday, December 11, 2011, with Rev. Larry Matthews and Rev. Dr. Jimmy Jarrell officiating. Family visitation will follow immediately after in the church fellowship hall. Visitors will be welcomed at other times at the home of his mother and step-father, 303 Old Gaston Ext., Gaston, NC.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial donations be made to Hampton Manor, Gaston, NC, Community Home Care and Hospice, Roanoke Rapids, or Hope Lodge, Greenville, NC.

Hockaday Funeral & Cremation Service of Roanoke Rapids is handling arrangements.