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William H. "Tex" Turner Jr.

William H. "Tex" Turner Jr.  obituary

William Turner Obituary

A Vigil for William H. "Tex" Turner, Jr. will be held on Tuesday, January 3, 2017 at Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church from 6 PM – 8 PM. The Omega rituals for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the Connecting Links, and the Knights of Saint Peter Claver will take place. The Celebration of Life Mass will be held at Saint Agnes Catholic Church on Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations are made to Saint Francis Xavier Catholic School in memory of William H. Turner, Jr. - Saint Francis Xavier Catholic School; Attention: Paula Fabre; 1150 S.12th Street; Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70802. The Internment will take place at Green Oaks Memorial Park. Arrangements are entrusted to Hall Davis & Sons Funeral Services, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. William H. 'Tex" Turner, Jr., one of Baton Rouge's preeminent educators, truth tellers, molders of men and women, master teachers, and Lay Ecclesial Ministers, departed this earth on Tuesday, December 27, 2016. He was 82 years old. Turner created a legacy, rooted in an unrelenting love of God, family, community, and the struggle of all those still longing for dignity in an imperfect world. Turner saw himself as part of an educational and spiritual continuum: A humble extension of a truth cypher that preceded him and one that would continue after his earthly contributions. His teaching style was one filled with easy to remember acronyms, repetitive scriptures, poetic phrases, and a true discipline for reading, writing, speaking, and critical thought. He was reared in the crucible of a Black Catholic community that charged him to be attentive to, Catholic social teaching, the prophets and apostles, and those Christian spiritualities forged in Africa and the Black American Struggle against enslavement. For the last 22 years of his life, he was an instructor of World Civilization at Southern University Baton Rouge, working also on weekends and summers teaching Upward Bound students. Turner also served as the Executive Director of Community Outreach to Reform Education (C.O.R.E.) Understanding William H. "Tex" Turner, Jr. requires that we grasp his personality as one forged in the transition from the Civil Rights (1955-1965) to the Black Power movements (1965-1975). Turner's most heroic moments in public life would come as the most militant expressions of the Black Power movement were declining, the Afrocentric movement in education was emerging, and the evolving discipline of his personal faith drew him closer to Jesus' teachings on "the love of neighbor" (Mark 12:31) and "the least of these" (Matthew 24:40). The writings of the Apostle Paul were also influential on Turner's thought, as he often referenced the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) as a basis for how he lived. However, his love for truth did not stop there, as he was an activist for voting rights, educational and economic opportunity, and full citizenship rights in a time where Baton Rouge Jim Crow institutions and culture changed slowly. Thus, one could easily surmise that, for Turner, education and faith were not the repetition of religious tradition or mundane educational standards, but a prophetic activity which required sacrifice and risks. From 1991 to 1995 Turner launched RENRUT Educational Consulting, that contributed to a national movement towards a black united front, in collaboration with Oba T'Shaka and Conrad Worrill. This movement worked for black community control of public schools, questioned racially biased academic standards, and posed new visions for educating urban youth. Turner served as Principal of Capitol Senior High School from 1979 – 1991. The Reagan years, while a backlash against black empowerment, also were years of resistance. While some white intellectuals and policy makers were concerned with the "disuniting of America," and wished to resist multi-cultural trends in education, Turner focused his efforts on launching The Capitol Way, a transformative educational method, that he described as "one by which the teaching of education will exist for the sake of all the young impressionable minds that entered Capitol High School's doors." Turner made Capitol a school where "everybody was somebody and a sense of achievement prevailed." He engendered "high hopes for the spiritual and intellectual growth of all students." This resulted in eighty percent (80%) of the students passing the Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (LEAP) and the average ACT score increased from ten (10) to seventeen (17) in eleven years. One of his students in a Facebook tribute to Turner stated, "whether you were a 4.0 student or a 0.4 student, he made you feel like you were the most important person on the planet. He constantly reminded us that we were not the summation of our life circumstances, but the epitome of hope. He consistently challenged us not to make excuses but to embrace the struggle, overcome the obstacles, and to be prepared for the hurdles that awaited. He filled us with pride." Turner, while at Capitol High School, won East Baton Rouge Parish Principal of the Year three times, created an environment where business people, government agencies (Louisiana Department of Employment and Training), private corporations (Ethyl), and educators, worked together to enhance student achievement for inner city youth. Turner, in a public controversy, faced repression as Principal of Capitol. Officially, he was forced into early retirement for impropriety. At a hearing, he was fined for trumped up charges regarding the school booster club and the almost one million dollars the club raised for school programs and projects. These penalties were later expunged. The tragic goal was fulfilled. The heroic school principal was removed because of his steadfast commitment to the "business of teaching and learning…." for students of color. This conflict illustrated that treachery is not the monopoly of the white race alone, and many people with coveted positions above society wanted this endeavor to be defeated. In line with his understanding of faith, Turner saw these events as a part of what it means to struggle with those dedicated to carving out their vision for Jesus' promise of community. Turner's career path to becoming the Principal of Capitol High School was rooted in the classrooms of rival McKinley Senior High School. McKinley High School is the oldest African American High School in Baton Rouge, and Turner's journey from a McKinley Senior High school student, classroom teacher, coach and school Assistant Principal, was inspired by Malcolm X's ideas of self-defense, and community-based educational curriculum control. Later in his life and via personal spiritual growth, Turner developed an increased appreciation for Dr. King's preaching against violence as well as King's espousal of love and fellowship. Turner recognized, reading the Gospel of Matthew, that the struggle for the 'least of these,' required that the sanctity of life had to remain as a fundamental ideal. Turner, as teacher and coach at McKinley High School, won Teacher of the Year twice, Coach of the Year five times, and Assistant Principal of the Year twice. He was inducted into the McKinley High School Hall of Fame in 1994 after compiling a distinguished academic career as a student, teacher and coach of several McKinley state track championship teams. These accomplishments were achieved during Jim Crow challenging Turner to find educational solutions towards the creation of academic, athletic, social, and political opportunities for all students. From 1959-1962, Turner learned successful strategies to assist children in excelling academically and athletically in Lake Charles, Louisiana, while serving as a first-time teacher and coach at Washington High School. After earning a B.S. degree in History Education from Grambling State University on a football scholarship while playing for the legendary Coach Eddie Robinson, he was drafted to the United States Army. Stationed in Germany, he taught English to Command Staff service members and competed athletically on an Army football team. Turner furthered his education, earning a Master's Degree in Administration and Supervision from Southern University. He additionally earned 70 plus hours from Southern University, University of Southwestern Louisiana, and Louisiana State University. Turner was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.; Phi Delta Kappa; the Knights of Saint Peter Claver, and he was a Connecting Link. In 1962 Tex Turner married Lorina Bartie, and together they had two children, Patrick William (Angelea) and Martha Angele Turner-Quest (Matthew). William is survived by his wife and children; four grandchildren, Kia, Beja, Daelyn, and Trinyty Turner; four great-grandchildren, Jaydon and Joshua Turner and Khloe and Kya Clark; two brothers, Leo Turner (Juanita) and Willie Gene Turner (Anna); a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his daughters: Babygirl Turner and Rhonda Turner; his mother, Martha Dunbar; his father, William Turner, Sr.; his sister, Laurel Jean Holder, and his grandson, Patrick Joseph (P.J.) Turner. Turner's academic career spanned nine decades. As a newly welcomed ancestor, Turner leaves behind the vibrations of a thunderous voice, bellowing out his favorite axiom, "KGF: Keep God First."

Published by The Advocate from Dec. 31, 2016 to Jan. 4, 2017.
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Memories and Condolences
for William Turner

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Coach Turner was my offensive line coach at McKinley High School 1965-1967, and he was my American History Instructor '67-'68. He truly made it very plain that it was imperative to do well in the class room as well as on the football field. I remembered his studying for classes he was taking as well as dieting during lunch on cans of Sego.
His joy of teaching history translated to his students wanting to do well. What an inspiring force as a man and as a teacher. Now that I have the privilege to teach at a university, I am sometimes reminded of the teachings of Coach " TEX ". Well done , Coach and Thanks!!!!!! Peace, Love and Joy be with The Turner Family.
Donnie Ray Albert
President, McK. HS Class '68
Senior Lecturer in Voice; University of Texas Austin; Butler School of Music

Donnie Ray Albert

Student

December 26, 2019

Condolences to the Family of Mr. Turner. I had the pleasure of spending time with Mr. Turner at the Upward Bound program and then again at Southern University. Such an awesome man and profound speaker. Thank you Mr. Turner.

Amber Blanchard

January 10, 2017

our deepest sympathy to your family.
the augustus family
seymore, kimberly seimone (sarah augustus and family)

January 6, 2017

Our condolence and prayer to the family of Mr. Turner. I worked with Mr. Turner as a professor of History at Southern University. He was truly a one of a kind teacher, always concerned about the welfare of black students. He will surely be missed
EB Wicker

January 5, 2017

Simply put, Mr. Turner was a great man! It is amazing that a History professor to a immature college freshman in 1996 would have such a major impact on my life. That's because he was no ordinary History professor and definitely no ordinary man. He was extraordinary in his pursuit of educating young minds and leaving his mark on this world. Everyone who crossed his path, learned something inspirational and valuable from him. I am forever thankful to Mr. Turner!

Niles Haymer

January 5, 2017

Thank you Mr. Turner for your guidance and for how you kept Capitol High as safe and great as only you could; you helped to prove in own way that the outside saying that "nothin' good comes out of Capitol High" was a flat out lie, for plenty of your former students are GREATLY contributing to society doing very well for themselves, so as you take your rest, we will miss you, a true giant of an original human being. Also my dad will miss you for you was his coach at McKinley High in your younger years, I'll use this quote for life as you did in school "teaching and learning, that's it, nothing else".

Derrick Williams

January 5, 2017

Our condolences to the Turner family. Coach Turner was my football teacher as well as my American History teacher. The parallels he made in the class room as well as on the field were inspirational and transforming. He was also very funny when trying to diet at lunch time with the latest meal trend.Thanks for the memories always cherished.
Donnie and Gwen Albert

January 5, 2017

Zina Felecisa Dyer Stockton

January 5, 2017

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Eric Ferguson

January 5, 2017

My condolences to the loved ones of Mr. Turner. He taught me and the rest of the Capitol Sr. High family how to carry ourselves with self-respect and poise. Always encouraging us to do everything "In the Capitol Way, in the Capitol tradition".
Proud Member of the Outstanding Class of 1983

Tammie Davis Johnson

January 4, 2017

REST IN PEACE Bro. Turner, a friend and colleague of my Mother Rev. Miriam T. Mitchell who taught together at McKinley High School ! For they are both ANGELS in the HEAVEN's . PEACE to there ASHES AMEN !

Bro. Rev. Vada Mitchell

January 4, 2017

Mr. Turner was truly an inspiration. He was an extremely passionate and captivating college professor. I would like to extend prayers to his family at this difficult time.

LaKenya Johnson

January 4, 2017

One of the Best coaches ever and never can be replaced, he effected my life in the most positive way ever, he simply said RUN boy. I never stopped running all the way to the NBA. It was his voice that I heard on my way there, RUN BOY RUN.

Fred&Connie Hilton

January 4, 2017

You are truly one of the best principal that ever walked the halls of Capitol High School. Thank you for encouraging me to always have a Positive Mental Attitude on and off the court. You will truly be missed

Shawanda Hill

January 4, 2017

RIP Mr.Turner!I will never forget you!!! Capitol High C/O 1983

JEWELL REVISH

January 4, 2017

My deepest sympathy to Lorina and the family. Be blessed and treasure your fondest memories of your loved one.

Judy London

January 4, 2017

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Angela Lathers

January 4, 2017

Mr. Turner was a wonderful person. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him. Our prayers are with the Turner family. Knees in great shape.
Love always.

Michael and Sharon Armstrong

Michael & Sharon Armstrong

January 4, 2017

It can be so hard to face the first year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through.

William "Bill" and Theresa Blount

January 4, 2017

My cousin Tex was an authentic person. He has made an impact in so many lives. He will be missed greatly on this earth. May his life be celebrated.

Drexal & Jackie Allen

January 3, 2017

My deepest and heartfelt thoughts and prayers are extended to the Turner family. Coach Turner was my high school history teacher at McKinley Senior High School. I will always remember and cherish his "no none sense" approach. When a student entered Coach Turner's class, he/she was prepared. We never wanted to disappoint "The Man"! When I became a teacher, assistant principal, and principal, I channeled what I saw and respected in him. "Farewell, my teacher, until we meet again!"

JoAnn Williams-West

January 3, 2017

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Cynthia Horton

January 3, 2017

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this most difficult time.

Mike & Trish Treloar

January 3, 2017

The Turner Family
My thoughts and prayers are with you in this your time of grief. Tex was like a Big Brother to me, growing up on Texas St. He was a mentor to me at McKinley H.S. as well as when I became an Educators in EBR Rest well in paradise Tex.

Larry K Horton McKinley c/of '66

January 3, 2017

My deepest sympathy to the family. Mr. Turner was an inspiration to me as well as a very important encourager to a student that had very little confidence and self esteem. The things he said to me remain deep within. They helped me in ways that "Coach" Turner will never know.

January 3, 2017

My Beloved COACH AND PRINCIPAL, I SHALL NEVER FORGET YOUR COMPASSION,HONESTY AND YOUR WAY OF DEALING WITH THOSE WHOM THOUGHT THEY WERE GANGSTERS, THANK YOU FOR KEEPING ME SAFE,OUT OF PRISON AND FROM BEING A SLAVE,

Jesse Robinson

January 3, 2017

To Ms. Turner and family,
Coach was truly a great man who will be missed. He mentor so many of us from McKinley and from St Francis Xavier Catholic Church. I will always remember him most from church how supported he was for the school and projects we undertake along the way. I will remember the quotes he had to remind you that you are somebody in this world and be the best of whatever you want to be. Keep striving for good and always remember as coach put "kGF" Keep God First. May the peace of Christ be with you and the family and enjoy the memories of a great husband, father, grandfather, church member, and mentor to all he touched.

Cynthia Beshears-Stewart

January 3, 2017

My sincere condolences to Mrs. Turner and the Turner family. Mr. Turner touched so many lives in a positive way. We have lost an icon in our community.

Sincerely,
Brenda Brown Dahmer
McKinley High Class of 1977

January 3, 2017

I am so sorry that I can't be with you guys at the services. Mr. Turner has been an immeasurable fixture in my growing up. He has personally shaped my life in so many ways. He was great man who will be missed. Thank you for letting him be apart of our lives. May God bring you comfort.

Stephanie Duell

January 3, 2017

With Deepest Condolences from the Capitol High School Class of 1985. Mr. Turner was an inspiration and a light to all of us. His legacy will forever live on through our lives. Please know that you are all in our prayers.

Alicia Bethley/ CHS Class of 1985

January 3, 2017

My sincere condolences. He was my favorite professor freshman year. C/O 2003.

Mary Smith

January 2, 2017

With deepest condolences from the Class of 1969 Capitol High School.

Bertha Rogers

January 2, 2017

Mr. William Tex Turner Jr.
My friend, my mentor one who would always encourage me and happy to see me when we would run across each other's path. A giant at McKinley Senior High School for so many years and a pillar in the South Baton Rouge Community, back when we had the Black Power Movement, the city first Black City Councilman, the riot on North Blvd., he was right there in "The Bottom" leading and encouraging us. Truly one of the great one's that left an example for all to reach for, He was loud, not bash, kind and straight to the point. But most of all he wanted us all to succeed and be successful. Sis. Turner I will keep you in my prayers and yes we will miss Mr. William Tex Turner Jr.
PS: I will always remember having to put my elbows on his desk as he showed us love with that paddle. Thank you coach it made a different!

Russell Flowers

January 2, 2017

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Benita Adams

January 2, 2017

With Deepest Sympathy!
My condolences to Mr. William "Tex" Turner's family. May you find comfort in the memories that you'll have shared.
"Capitol Sr High School Class of 1982"

Kathy Johnson

January 2, 2017

May you Rest In Eternal peace Mr. Turner, thank you for caring Sir. Capitol High School C/0 1993

Calvin McMorris

January 2, 2017

When tomorrow starts without Coach Turner we can move on because he has left a great legacy, knowing that he has touched so many lives. He was a man of integrity, a father to us all. He loved all the students that walked down the halls of McKinley High. Coach we love you.You will always be in our hearts.

Cathy Holden

January 2, 2017

American History ; McKinley High School

Ivy Joe Davis

January 2, 2017

My condolences for the family..

Lisa P

January 2, 2017

With deepest sympathy

juanita payton

January 2, 2017

To my family, I was saddened and so o o o o sorry to learn of Tex's illness and now his passing. I remember him fondly. There's nothing I can say to ease the pain but at least I can share in your grief. Please accept my sincere condolences. He was loved by many and will be misses by all. Please know that I wish each of you Peace and Love.

Johnnie Mae Quiett-Key

January 2, 2017

Words seem inadequate to express the sorrow felt by the loss of "Uncle Tex". My heart is with each of you.

Sharon & Andre Ludlow

January 2, 2017

Uncle Tex: You were a great influence in my life. I will miss you. Love Keith Anthony Rodney

January 2, 2017

Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal. Take pleasure in the beautiful memories that I'm sure you have. Look to GOD for strength now and always.

Lloyd and Mary Veronica Baptiste

January 2, 2017

I wish you peace and comfort in the days ahead. With deepest sympathy,

Lawren St. Amant-Taylor

January 2, 2017

He who sprinkles Glitter, always leaves Gold . Mr. Turner you will be so missed , but you have given us so much gold to be placed in our memory box of treasure until you will not every be forgotten, So may you R.I.H. . Prayers to the Tuner family .

Harretta Martin

January 2, 2017

Praying for you and your family.. Lean on God..
Your friend,
Kim Jackson and family

Kim Jackson

January 2, 2017

Mr Turner inspired me beyond measure while a student at Southern University! I will always cherish what I learned in History 114 with him. Prayers to his family!

Philip Pratt

January 2, 2017

My prayers to my uncle, he was a great loving man, he will be truly missed, love you Unlce Tex, RIP

Charisse Bartie

January 2, 2017

My condolences to you and your family on the passing of your father. It is never easy to lose a parent, no matter your age. I pray for your peace and comfort.

Carla Sanders

January 2, 2017

With Deepest Sympathy,

Natalie, Jaylon and Braylon

January 2, 2017

We are praying for the Turner family. May God bless you and comfort you at this time.

Watts Family

January 1, 2017

One of the best like a father figure at McKinley Sr. High. A life that made a big impact. Prayers to his family friends panther family. Never will be forgotten.

Darlene McKinley -McCormick

January 1, 2017

Alice Washington

January 1, 2017

Mr. WIlliam "Tex" Turner Jr, was a giant of a man. He took the below average student and made tutored them to walk with giants. Teaching and learning was a great part of his legacy, and he was a father figure to all he encountered. He was a leader who led by example, and his work ethic was second to none. He will be truly missed by all, but we must remember. What comes from God, goes back to God! A true warrior on the battlefield of life, but most importantly. He, was a man who blazed the path for others to follow. May God, keep us all in the loss of our Leader. The world is better because of men like him!

Rev. Segmund J. Freeman

January 1, 2017

A true icon for all Alpha African-American females that passed through and or graduated from Capitol High in his tenure. He will always be remembered for his love care and connection with his students.

Alfreda Butler

January 1, 2017

My first principal in high school (CHS) such a wonderful man whom impacted so many young people lives! May GOD strengthen the family.

Christy Turner

January 1, 2017

Mr. Turner was the principal when i was at Capitol High School. He did a very good job, he will truly be missed by all who knew him.

Annette Goza Penn

January 1, 2017

May the God of all comfort be with the family...KGF! Neighbor from Pear St.

Ruth Ross

January 1, 2017

Mr. Turner, the lessons you taught are still with me til this day.....I make a point to arrive early almost everywhere I go (work on being early)....when I'm inside a hot building on a summer day (think cool)......and of course all Capitol alums favorite math lesson (what's 2 & 3.......23rd, hit it!) You will be missed, but never forgotten, take your rest sir. My heartfelt condolences to your family. #CapitolWillAlwaysLoveThee

Charles Elzy Jr

January 1, 2017

We all found what we needed, in Coach Turner. That remarkable quality is a signal characteristic of impactful individuals. To believe in yourself or not believe in yourself at a particular point in your life, is of lesser consequence than to have someone you respect, believe in you, your capabilities and potential. I'm certain that no one, other than my parents, was more responsible for any of my success academically, on the track field or in any leadership role, than coach. He was not a "Rah, Rah" guy. He would simply give you his impression, tell you what you could do to be successful and leave it in your hands. Ultimately, you didn't want to let him down because he saw something in you that maybe you didn't; and he BELIEVED in YOU!
"Tex" Turner; my teacher, my coach, my mentor and friend. Farewell after a race well run.

Charles Brent

January 1, 2017

Co. Turner will be missed,one of the best persons this world has ever seen. God bless to his family and friends.
Atl,Ga.

January 1, 2017

Deepest condolences to the family and friends of Coach Tex Turner

L. Atkins-Ard

January 1, 2017

Coach Turner was a father figure to a lot of students at McKinley SR when I was student. He was fair when he had to discipline a student.
He didn't talk down to any student. He would just "drop in" the classes and start a conversation of the world (city)events. Coach Turner would listen to every student who had an opinion. His opinion meant a lot to students.
You can rest, Coach Turner! Your job was well done

Daisy Barges

December 31, 2016

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