Michael Troy Turner Sr.

Michael Troy Turner Sr., 72, of Porter, Texas, was born on February 21, 1953, in Kirby, Arkansas, and left this earth on May 2, 2025. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, craftsman, and musician whose presence was warm——and terribly funny.

A master trim carpenter by trade, Michael took great pride in his work and had an extraordinary eye for detail, leaving his mark on countless homes and projects over the years. Beyond his craftsmanship, he was a lifelong drummer and passionate music lover, playing with bands such as Gene & Lauretta’s Town & Country Sounds, the Movin’ On Band, and Brian Black. If you knew Michael for more than five minutes, you likely heard about his love for classic country, western swing, classic rock, and the blues. You may have even heard about this one band—called Grand Funk Railroad. Don Brewer, anyone?

Michael also had a lifelong love of muscle cars, especially his 1969 GTO, and found great joy in restoring them and admiring their beauty and power.

Born at home in Kirby as the fifth of eight siblings to Troy and Berniece Turner, Michael came into the world the smallest—just five pounds—but eventually grew to be the tallest of them all. In elementary school, the family relocated to Houston, Texas—fondly remembered as “the Cedar Hill days”—where he met some of his lifelong friends and later attended MacArthur High School.

In 1976, at age 23, Michael bought his first home in Porter, Texas, where he would raise his family and remain for the rest of his life. During this time, he honed his carpentry skills under the guidance of his older brothers while playing music professionally throughout the area.

In 1979, while playing a gig, Michael met the love of his life— “Little Cindy.” Michael stood tall at 6’3”, while Cindy was a fierce 5’3” …on a good day. They married on September 29, 1979, and together built a life full of laughter and love. They welcomed their son, Michael Jr., in August 1983, and their daughter, Lindsey, in July 1988—and all was right in the world.

The Turner family shared many treasured years together enjoying summer vacations, concerts, car shows, and countless holiday gatherings with loved ones on both the Turner and Wise sides. In 2008, Michael became a grandfather to Madelyn and Zephyr, who brought light and purpose to his life, especially after the heartbreaking loss of his beloved Cindy. In 2016, his grandson Rocky was born—a spitting image of Michael as a young boy.

Those who knew Michael will remember his quiet strength, sharp wit, and generous spirit. He lived life on his own terms and left a legacy of hard work, love, and stories to boot.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Troy and Berniece Turner; his siblings Lennie, Oscar, Randy, and Jana; and his adoring wife, Cindy. He is survived by his son, Michael Jr., and daughter-in-law Deloney; his daughter, Lindsey, and son-in-law Joey; his grandchildren, Madelyn, Zephyr, and Rocky; his siblings, Bennie, Lauretta, and Teddy; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and colleagues. And lastly, his beloved cat, Spencer.