Dr. Farris Ray Turk Jr

Ray graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Science Degree from the College of Agriculture and a doctorate of Veterinary Medicine Degree from the University of Georgia, School of Veterinary Medicine in 1956. He became the owner of Athens Veterinary Clinic in 1957. It was the first private small animal hospital in Athens after the University of Georgia School opened and Dr. McClendon closed his veterinary practice and joined the U.G.A. facility. In 1964 Ray built the first small animal hospital in Athens which was recognized as a member hospital of the American Animal Hospital Association which requires the highest standard of the quality of the facility, equipment, practice methods and management. He practiced for thirty-five years before retiring.

Ray was a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association, Alpha Psi Veterinary Medical Professional Fraternity, Gridiron Secret Society, Athens City Club, former member of the Board of Trustees of Athens Academy, and a member of First Baptist Church of Athens.

Ray is survived by his wife, DeMaris Fowler Turk, of fifty-seven years; son Jeff and his wife Elizabeth; Daughter Jennifer Turk Fitzgerald and her husband, Michael Fitzgerald, Sr; grandchildren, Michael Fitzgerald Jr., Catherine DeMaris Fitzgerald, Camille Turk, and Clary Turk.

A memorial service will be held October 2 at 2:00pm at First Baptist Church of Athens, with Dr. Paul Baxley officiating. A reception will be held in Fellowship Hall following the service.

The family wishes to thank Ray’s friend and caregiver, Gladys; Leslie Kimbel R.N, administrator and Karen Higgins, R.N. of Affinis Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Ray’s honor to Helping Paws Rescue; 130 Whitetail Way, Bogart Georgia 30622, Attention Amanda Cook. Or Athens First Baptist Church, 355 Pulaski Street Athens GA 30601.

Online and audio condolences may be offered at www.bernsteinfuneralhome.com

Bernstein Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.