Gene Edward Turnage was born, at home, North of Hayti, Missouri, on Tuesday, March 26, 1946 to Edward Carmack Turnage and Edna Inez Minnick. Gene was an avid hunter during his childhood with his father but was a self-professed “mama’s boy”. Gene was a lettered athlete and at one time held the record for pole vaulting in the state of Missouri. After high school, Gene enlisted in the Navy becoming a Navy Seabee. He served in the Navy from 1964-1969 and did two and half tours of duty in Vietnam. Gene remained a proud veteran for the rest of his life.
Gene married Jo Duckworth on May 27, 1973. Gene and Jo raised four children: Beth, Brian, Sarah, and Paul. Gene instilled a love of antiques and music in all four of his children. Gene spent many weekends going to estate sales and garage sales with his children looking for the perfect treasures for them and himself. He also instilled a fierce independent streak in all four of them much to the dismay of many. Gene encouraged his children to follow their dreams and never take no for answer. There was never a doubt in any of their minds how much he loved them.
Some of his happiest days were when Gene’s grandchildren were born. He was the proud grandfather of Noah, Savannah, Benjamin, and Andrew. He was their beloved Pops. You could often find Pops cheering from the sidelines or bleachers for all their extra curriculars. Pops was always there to lend a helping hand, a wise ear, or a few dollars to his grandchildren. They were truly his pride and joy!
After living his life on his on his terms, Gene passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, July 23, 2022. Gene joins his parents, sister Linda, and youngest son, Paul in Heaven. Gene is survived by, his wife of 49 years, Jo; his children Beth (Sammy), Brian (Kellie), and Sarah (David); and his grandchildren Noah, Savannah, Benjamin, and Andrew.
Family and friends will gather on Wednesday, July 27 from six o'clock until eight o'clock in the evening and a celebration of Gene's life will be on Thursday, July 28 beginning at ten o'clock in the morning all at Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38119. A reception will follow immediately after the funeral service at Pete & Sam's restaurant, 3886 Park Avenue, Memphis, TN 38111.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MemphisFuneralPoplar.com for the Turnage family.
