William Ray Turner

William "Mater" Ray Turner, 81, of Saluda, passed away on Monday, February 24, 2025. Born in Saluda, SC, he was a son of the late William Edward and Minnie Burnett Turner. Ray proudly served his country as a United States Army veteran, completing active duty from 1963 to 1965 as a Signal Corp Radio Operator, and went on to serve in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1965 to 1969. He earned sharpshooter and expert driver badge while at Fort Hood, TX, and Fort Gordon, Ga. Ray was a member of the Big Red Hunting Club of Saluda County and a former Trinity Lutheran Church member. For over 40 years, he was the proud owner of Turner Construction, where he built not just homes but lifelong friendships. An avid fisherman and hunter, Ray found great joy in the outdoors and in helping others. Whether hosting cookouts or lending a hand with home projects, he was always happiest when surrounded by family and friends.

Surviving are his beloved wife of 59 years, Teresa H. Turner; children, Lisa Turner Shealy (Bob), Tim E. Turner (Jami), Michael I. Turner (Ruth); grandchildren, Robby Shealy (Lucy), Whitney Turner (Kareem Anderson), Cassie Robinson (Caleb), Bailey Overcash, William "Will" Turner (Mary), Adam Shealy (Kortney), Karson Turner, Carter Shealy; along with his great-grandchildren, Hunter Rae Shealy, Khloee Anderson, Kingston Anderson and Wrenlee Shealy. Also surviving are his brother, Keith Turner (Brenda), and sister, Cathy "Punkin" Corley; as well as extended family members. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Joyce Crockett; brothers, Jerry Turner and Donald "Donnie" Turner (Linda); and a grandson, Kenneth "Kenny" Shealy.

A graveside service for Ray will be held at 11 A.M. on Friday, February 28, 2025, at Trinity Cemetery with Rev. Burton Campbell, Rev. Dennis Campbell, and Rev. Durand Hall officiating. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 P.M. on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at Milton Shealy Funeral Home. Pallbearers will be: Robbie Shealy, Will Turner, Adam Shealy, Carter Shealy, Hunter Shealy, Don Turner, Kable Corley, and Todd Hopkins.