Gary Eugene Turner

Gary Turner, 70 of St. Cloud, Florida, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, after a courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease. He was born in Pittsfield, Massachusetts to Eugene and Shirley Turner on February 2, 1953. He had four sisters, Sharon Baldauff, Susan Anderson, Jan O’Brien, and Wendy Gilley, and one brother, Bobby Turner. Gary was raised in Deland, Florida, graduating from Deland High School in 1971. While in high school, Gary met the love of his life, Joanne Turner. The two married in 1972 and spent 51 wonderful years together. True to form, Joanne was at Gary’s side, holding his hand and reading him the bible at the end. In addition to Joanne, Gary is survived by his two adoring sons, Scott and Stephen Turner, their wives, who Gary considered his daughters, Elizabeth and Brigette Turner, and Gary’s three grandsons, Jackson, Elijah and Liam Turner. Gary loved sports, both as an athlete and a coach. He played football and surfed in high school. After high school, he played adult softball and competitive racquetball. When his sons were born, he transitioned all his time to coaching. Gary could always be found in a dugout or on a sideline when Scott or Stephen were playing. And when he was not coaching, Gary was in the stands. He never missed a game. Gary was an electrician. He began working for Walt Disney World in 1984 and helped build Epcot Center. Over time, he was promoted to the role of Project Manager before becoming a Disney Imagineer. He remained a dedicated Cast Member at Epcot until his retirement in 2016. Gary was committed to the Lord and his church. Throughout the years, he served as a sound and lighting technician, Troop Commander for Royal Rangers, and Church Elder at City of Life Church. He was dedicated to serving his church and community. Gary enjoyed Florida Gator football, Nascar, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Orlando Magic, Star Wars, snow skiing, Legos with his grandkids, theme parks, travel with Joanne, pedicures, desserts, smoking ribs, camping, the Beatles, his Mustang GT, fantasy football, DIY projects and Sip and Dip Donuts. Gary will be missed by everyone who had the opportunity to know him. He treated everyone he encountered with dignity and a smile, and that is how he will be remembered.

Gary Eugene Turner

February 2, 1953 - November 14, 2023