Donald Ray "Poppy" Turner

Donald graduated from Bastrop High School and Northeast Louisiana University. He honorably served in the United States Army as a Captain in the Infantry, with service in Korea. Following his military service, he built a distinguished career as a Field Office Supervisor with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Don lived a life marked by faith, family, and joy. He was married to the love of his life, Wanda, for 61 years, and together they built a home filled with laughter, patience, and unwavering commitment.

Nothing brought him greater happiness than time spent with his grandchildren. Whether teaching them to fish, cheering them on from the sidelines, or simply listening to their stories, he treasured every moment with them and took great pride in the people they were becoming.

An avid outdoorsman, Don found peace on the golf course and along the water with a fishing pole in hand. He believed that some of life’s best conversations happened between swings and casts, and he never missed an opportunity to enjoy God’s creation.

His Christian faith was the foundation of his life. He was a faithful member of both First Baptist Church Haughton and Immanuel Lutheran Church, where he worshiped, served, and formed lasting friendships. His faith guided his actions, shaped his character, and gave him strength in all seasons of life.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Wanda M. Turner; his sons, Chris Turner and wife Cathy L. Turner, Jason Turner and wife Arden B. Turner; daughter, Danielle T. Bryant and husband Layton Bryant; his cherished grandchildren, Dr. Jessica T. Gaillard and Garrett Gaillard, William D. Turner and Sarah, Abigail T. Hensley and Colton, Conner B. Turner, Hampton L. Bryant, Cole R. Turner, and Adeline A. Bryant; and great grandchildren, James Gaillard, Murphy Kate Hensley, Luke Gaillard; brother and sister-n-law, Roy and Jeanette Witherington; nephews, Hollis, Chan and wife Kasey Witherington; special nieces and nephews, Lisa Moss Raymond, Jeff Moss, Donna Moss Melancon, and Perry Moss along with many extended family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman Turner and Laverne Turner and his sister, Sybil Moss; nephew, Ryan Witherington.

A celebration of his life will be held on his birthday, May 10, 2026, at First Baptist Church Haughton, 105 E Washington Ave., Haughton, Louisiana 71037. Details regarding the time will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to First Baptist Church Haughton or Immanuel Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice.

Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing he now rests in the arms of his Savior Jesus Christ, reunited with loved ones who went before him, and at peace forever