Dr. Thomas Henry Turner of DeValls Bluff, went to be with the Lord May 13, 2020. Part of the “greatest generation” he was born on December 28, 1924 in Marianna, Arkansas.
He served his country by enlisting during World War II in the U.S. Navy. During that time he received his medical training at the University of Iowa. He also served in the US Air Force during the Korean War, stationed in South Korea.
Dr. Turner married Wanda Sue Tarter (deceased) from Carlisle, Arkansas. Together they had a son, Thomas Henry Jr. (Kathy Beadle Turner) and twins, Leslie Susan (James Flynn) and Bradley James (deceased). Later they had the joy of being grandparents to Susanna Flynn Henderson (Shawn) and Thomas Flynn (Mandy Wacker Flynn) and great-grandparents to Ashleigh Susan and Turner James Henderson as well as Alison Jane and James Henry Flynn.
Dr. Turner faithfully served the public by being a D.D.S. for more than 50 years.
He had a reputation for being “painless”, as well as a calm friendly voice. He transformed anxious dental procedures into friendly visits among neighbors.
In his retirement years, Dr. Turner (“Hank” to many) enjoyed gardening and listening to classical music. He also loved old movies especially westerns and football. Always a sovereign soul, Hank maintained his independence and dignity until his final days. His greatest joy was sharing his faith and teaching Sunday school at the Methodist Church in Hazen. Generous to a fault, loved my many and always a gentleman, Dr. Thomas Henry Turner will be greatly missed.
A graveside service will be held Tuesday, May 19, 2020 at 10:00 A.M. at the Carlisle Cemetery.
He was a one of a kind doctor and person. He will be greatly missed.
As a veteran of two wars, Dr. Turner faithfully served our nation in time of need. He served his family, his friends, his church, and his patients well. May God’s Word and His Holy Spirit (the “Comforter”) provide comfort, strength and assurance to his family and friends.
Dr. Turner was my dentist for many years and I’ve been his dentist here in Little Rock for about 35 years. He will greatly missed by me and my staff. A true gentleman from our greatest generation. His most important legacy is that of husband, father, and grandfather. He had a deep love for the Lord and I was lucky enough to be in one of his Bible Study Fellowship groups in Little Rock. I think he was a leader in BSF for about 30 years. God bless his family.
I’m so happy I caught up with my dear friend, Leslie Turner Flynn, after so many years not only became she is so special, but also because she shared with me her father’s lifestyle in his later years. He lived on the lake on some beautiful land, gardened and taught Sunday school and visited Leslie and family in Texas during special occasions. He lived in peace independently until his death. He was a strong Christian that I am sure is walking with Jesus in the garden.
Most people hesitate having anything done to their teeth. Dr Turner had a kindest personality and great skills in his work. Actually all of us enjoyed in a way our “dental” visits. He will be thought of well for a long time.
Our sincere word of sympathy go to his family.
Ludwik Kozlowski with family