JT Turner Obituary

JT Turner was born on May 19, 1922, in Warren, Arkansas, to Harvey and Sudie Hamilton-Turner. Both parents predeceased him: his beloved son, James T. Turner Sr.; one brother, Earl Turner; three sisters, Mineola Turner, Cleola McCrary, and Joann Lee.

The family relocated from Warren, Arkansas, to Wichita, Kansas, and eventually established residence in Kansas City, Missouri. JT completed his education at Lincoln High School in 1940.

JT enlisted in the United States Army on October 9, 1942, serving honorably until February 16, 1946, achieving the rank of Sergeant. JT was a proud, distinguished veteran of World War II.

JT united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Helen W. Strother Turner. From this union, a son named James T. Turner was born. In his later years, he married Ida Johnson Turner. He was preceded in death by both of his wives.

JT was a devoted, lifelong member of Friendship Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend James Allen Terrance, Jr. He actively participated in the Deacon Ministry, was a member of the Male Chorus, and served as a Sunday School Teacher, and contributed to the Nathaniel Sheepfold Ministry. Upon his passing, he held the distinction of being the oldest member of the congregation.

JT dedicated 27 years of his professional life to The United States Postal Service culminated in his retirement in 1981. Additionally, JT spent a few years working for Country Dairy as a Milkman. JT entrepreneurial drive, however, was unwavering, motivating him to establish his own Janitorial Service, JT Janitorial Service, which he owned and operated successfully for four decades.

At the legendary age of 100, JT experienced his inaugural manicure and pedicure. He found it so enjoyable that he concluded any dapper gentleman should incorporate this treat as a regular indulgence, which he certainly did include.  Let’s not forget that he was always well dressed and loved showing off his dapper style. He was quite a charmer and generous with his wisdom, consistently imparting golden nuggets of advice whether you asked or not.

JT was a rare Centenarian, surpassing the age of 100 to reach the remarkable age of 103. JT lived a rich and whole life, and he was profoundly grateful to God for all the amazing life experiences he had along his journey.

JT departed this earthly life peacefully at St. Luke’s Hospice House on June 29, 2025. JT was the second oldest child and the sole surviving sibling till his passing.

JT leaves to cherish his memory, his loving and devoted grandchildren, James T. Turner Jr. (Diana), Kansas City, Missouri, Doris R. Turner, Frisco, Texas, Brian Q. Turner (Jennifer), Gardner, Kansas; his very special nephew, Barrett Lee, Raytown, Missouri; seven great-grandchildren, Antoine Sanders, Markeshia Anthony, Bryce Turner, Sydnee Turner, Bailey Turner, Brea Turner, and Zoey Taylor; one great-great-grandson, Malachi Carter; and a host of family, friends, and step-grandchildren.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc.