Shirley Turner

In Loving Memory of Shirley Earnestine West Turner

September 26, 1946 – June 16, 2025

Shirley Earnestine West Turner was born on September 26, 1946, in Raleigh, Mississippi, the eldest of seven children born to K.J. and Christine Page West. She peacefully fell asleep in death on the morning of June 16, 2025, at 7:15 a.m., at the age of 78.

Shirley was a woman of kindness, warmth, humor, and generosity. To know her was truly to love her. She never met a stranger, always opening her heart and home to those around her. A devoted mother, Shirley worked tirelessly from a young age to provide for her family, whom she deeply cherished. She had a passion for cooking and found great joy in spending time with her loved ones.

On April 23, 2011, Shirley dedicated her life to Jehovah and remained faithful in her service until her passing. She held a deep affection for her spiritual brothers and sisters and found strength and joy in her faith community.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, her granddaughter Candance Battle, and three brothers: Karon West, Sammy West, and Mark West. She also joins in rest her father-in-law, John Turner, Sr., mother-in-law, Beatrice Turner, and brother-in-law John Turner Jr.

Shirley leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with her devoted husband, Mr. Raymond Turner, and her children: Mr. Danny Battle (Louise), Mrs. Shirley Lewis (Adolph), and Ms. Christie Bennett. She also leaves two stepchildren, Mr. Jermaine Turner and Ms. April Townsend; four grandchildren: Mrs. Vanesha Williams (Sam), Ms. Natasha Battle, Mrs. Jaleesa Moore (Shadrach), and Ms. Isaviah Gilbert; and eight great-grandchildren: Mr. Justice Battle, Mr. Brandon Williams, Miss Lauryn Williams, Ms. Zia Shields, Mr. Jimare Kincaid, Mr. Zakkai Battle, Miss Remi Moore, and Miss Ivah Roseman.

Her siblings also survive her: Ms. Linda West (Larry), Mrs. Ladonna Murray (LeeVie), Mrs. Dora Harris (Guy), Mr. Tommie Wash (Bell), Mr. Alton West, and Ms. Dianne Williams. Additionally, she leaves behind her brothers-in-law, Mr. Reece Turner (Joyce) and Mr. Joseph Turner (Darlene); sisters-in-law, Mrs. Neather Bell Riley (Peter) and Ms. Jessie Turner, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Shirley continued to maintain a loving relationship with her former in-laws and remained close to them throughout her life. Special acknowledgment is given to her lifelong friend Ms. Maxie Jean Rankin, lovingly known as her “pain buddy,” and her treasured spiritual friends: Brother Linzie Dorris and Sister Frances Dorris; her “phone buddies” and fellow sisters in faith, Sister Alice Hawkins, Sister Doris McCurdy, Sister Iris Gray, Sister Pearline Townsend, Sister Francis Patrick, Sister Willie Gregory, and Brother Floyd Sharpe.

Shirley’s life was marked by unwavering love, generosity, and faith. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.