William Ray Turner

William Ray Turner, age 95, of Moberly, Missouri, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 11:15 p.m., surrounded by his loving family at Saint Joseph West Hospital in Lake Saint Louis, Missouri.

Bill was born on May 21, 1929, in Columbia, Missouri, to C. Ray Turner and Marianna (Davenport) Turner. He graduated from Hickman High School and in 1953 made his home in Moberly, where he began a 36-year career as a brakeman for the Wabash Railroad.

From August 1947 to August 1951, Bill served his country honorably in the United States Navy as a Radio Operator II. The skills he acquired during his Korean War service later fueled his passion as a dedicated Ham Radio operator.

Bill was a faithful member of Trinity United Methodist Church, where he actively participated in the Men’s Club, served at the annual Christmas Tree lot, and shared his love of cooking by preparing many meals enjoyed by the community.

On May 31, 1953, he married the love of his life, Gwendolyn Francis Whitesides, in Columbia, Missouri. Together, they built a family rooted in love, faith, and adventure.

A passionate leader and mentor, Bill devoted many years to Boy Scout Troop 14. He was especially proud that all four of his sons earned the rank of Eagle Scout. As Scoutmaster, he received numerous honors, including the Chariton Valley District Award of Merit—the highest district award—and the prestigious Vigil Honor of the Order of the Arrow.

Bill loved the outdoors. He was an avid trout fisherman, camper, and motorcycle enthusiast. He and Gwen served multiple seasons as camp hosts at Bennett Springs, forging lifelong friendships and creating cherished memories. They toured the country by motorcycle, visiting many national parks—his favorites included Glacier National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, the entire state of Montana, and Smoky Mountain National Park.

As a Ham Radio operator, Bill remained active in MARS (Military Auxiliary Radio System), assisting service members in communicating with their families—a cause he held dear.

Above all, Bill will be remembered for his unwavering love for his wife, sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His life was a testament to service, adventure, and devotion.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Jimmy and Richard Turner.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 71 years, Gwen Turner of Moberly, Missouri; his sons: Douglas William Turner of Grand Marais, Minnesota; Edward Harrison Turner of Picayune, Mississippi; David Ray (Michele) Turner of Foristell, Missouri; and Brian J. (Stephanie) Turner of Troy, Missouri. He is also survived by 15 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and brother, A. Jay (Mary Ann) Turner of Columbia, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief), Where Most Needed - Advance #999895.   To give by mail, make your check payable to Advance GCFA, write the name of the project and the Advance number on the memo line of the check and send it to: Global Ministries/UMCOR, GPO, P.O. Box 9068, New York, NY 10087-9068 or to pay online click this link Donate Here.

A graveside service celebrating Bill's life will be held on Monday, May 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, Missouri, with full military honors.

Bill’s legacy of faith, service, and love lives on in all who knew him.

Local arrangements are under the direction of Pathway-Millard Family Funeral Chapel, 411 Union Avenue, Moberly, MO 65270 (660)263-7284. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.pathwaymemorial.com.