Calvin Turner
COLUMBIA — Calvin Turner of Columbia was a devoted and dedicated father and friend who enjoyed attending family and social events.
“He enjoyed life and was a kind and loving person to his family and friends,” said David Givens, his oldest son.
Mr. Turner died Friday, July, 18, 2008, after a five-month battle with cancer. He was 69.
Mr. Turner was born on Feb. 20, 1939, in Callaway County to Mike Turner and Nellie (Walker) Turner.
He was an early riser, often getting up early to eat breakfast and mow the lawn before launching into a day’s work, Givens said.
He graduated from Douglass High School and was employed with the Columbia Water and Light Department as a line supervisor for 36 years. He received many awards from the city for his work, including the Recognition Award in 1994 and the Personal Service Award when he retired in 2001. Givens said his father, who often traveled to other states as part of his job, once received a key to a city where he and his crew helped restore power.
Mr. Turner was a co-founder of the Royal Duces club, co-sponsor of the Community Scholarship fund and a baptized member of Sugar Grove Baptist Church. His favorite motto was “common sense will get you through life.”
Mr. Turner’s interests extended far beyond his job and church. After retiring, Givens said his father enjoyed restoring old furniture, gardening and travel. On a lazy day, he could be found watching soap operas and Westerns on TV.
He is survived by four sons, David Givens of Boonville, Anthony VanBuren Sr. of Springfield, Va., Rodney Wright of Columbia, and Darrell Graves of Atlanta; a daughter, Anita Turner of Columbia; a stepson, Maurice Wright Jr. of Springfield; four stepdaughters, Casandra Graves of Columbia, Elisa Wright of Columbia, Angela Voice of Bellwood, Ill., and Audra Turner of Hillside, Ill.; and two sisters, Lucille Braden of Columbia and Dorothy McClenton of Kansas City.
He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a special friend, Helen Jackson. Nine brothers, two sisters and two sons died earlier.
Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Warren Funeral Chapel, 12 E. Ash St. Services, conducted by Mr. Turner’s niece, the Rev. Debbie Turner, will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Second Baptist Church, 407 E. Broadway. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, 1217 Business Loop 70 W.
