Helen Meares Turner

Helen Meares Turner, 81, passed away November 20th , 2009, at her home surrounded by her family. She was born January 3, 1928, to Lawrence Gray and Flora Ann Meares of Columbus County. Helen married her beloved husband, William L. Turner Bill, on February 16th, 1948. During their 61 years of marriage, they enjoyed square dancing, traveling, and participating in church activities at Winter Park Presbyterian Church. Helen loved being involved with her circle. For over 45 years, she worked with the Women of the Church, spending part of that time as their treasurer. Helen started her career as bookkeeper at Baugh Motor Company and later was employed by Jacobi Hardware and D&E Dodge. Helen is survived by her husband, William L. Turner; a son, William G. Turner and special friend Susan Goodman; a daughter, Cynthia D. Turner, and granddaughters, Shauna and Kelly Turner, all of Wilmington. She is also survived by sisters, Mary Kermon of Wilmington and Pauline Crownhart of Kansas City, MO; a brother, Nash Meares of Smithville, MO and numerous nieces and nephews. Helen was preceded in death by sisters Virginia Odom and Lillian Miller and brothers Lawrence J. Meares and Earl Meares. The family would like to thank Lower Cape Fear Hospice, especially Beth Cooke and Tracie Hilsman, for their care and kindness during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice or Winter Park Presbyterian Church. The family will receive visitors from 6-8:00 pm, Sunday, November 22, 2009, at Andrews Mortuary Valley Chapel. A funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm, Monday, November 23, 2009, at Andrews Mortuary Valley Chapel. The service will be officiated by Dr. Matt Highfill and Rev. Emile Harley, and special music will be played by nephew and organist Duke Ladd. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park.