Obituary of Richard Martin Turner

Richard M. Turner Sr., 82, of Exeter, passed away Monday June 10th, 2024 in River Street Nursing and Rehabilitation, Wilkes-Barre with his loving family by his side.

Born in Exeter, he was a son of the late Floyd and Edna Nicholson Turner.  He was a graduate of Exeter High School and was a member of St. Barbara’s Parish ( St. Anthony of Padua Church), Exeter.

Rick was employed at the Luzerne County Prison for 19 years until retiring as a Sergeant.  He was also employed as a police officer the borough of Exeter for many years.

He was along time public servant in Exeter Borough in several capacities.  He was a lifelong member of the Exeter Hose Company #1, a founding member of the Exeter Community ambulance association and served 28 years as an Exeter Borough Council member.  

Rick was one of the founding members in starting the Exeter Panthers Football Association.  He was also a 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus John F. Kennedy Council 372, Pittston. 

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather and a friend to so many.  His life revolved around his family and his work ethic at home, on council and at work before retiring, was for them.  To make things great for his family and for the people that he served was his Rick's passion.  

Rick was preceded in death by his brothers,  Edward and Robert Turner.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Johanna Fonzo Turner, children, Richard Jr. (Gerri), Scott Twp., Gerald (Joellen), Exeter,  Robert, Exeter, Debbie (Sean) Stackhouse, West Pittston,  John (Mona), West Pittston, Vincent (Jacqueline), Exeter, Michael (Jessica ), Wyoming, 14 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The Funeral will be held on Saturday June 15th, 2024 at 9:30am. From the Howell-Lussi Funeral Home Inc., 509 Wyoming Avenue, West Pittston.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10am. In St. Barbara’s Parish ( St. Anthony of Padua Church) 224 Memorial Street, Exeter with Monsignor John Sempa and Father Paul McDonnell as the celebrants.  Interment will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton section of Wyoming.  Relatives and friends may attend a viewing for Rick on Friday June 14th, 2024  from 4pm until 8pm. At the  Funeral Home.

Online Condolences can be left at our website at Howelllussi.com.

Rick always left family and close friends in saying “ Bye Babe” .