Edgar “Ed” Craig Turner, Sr. passed away in his home in Christiansburg on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023.
Ed was a man of many talents and interests who loved his family and friends well. Born Sept. 1, 1956, Ed was the second child of Ernest Craig Turner, Jr. and Janet Reed Turner of Blacksburg. Ed leaves behind his sister Marilyn Lyga and his brother Doug Turner. Of his childhood memories, Ed spoke fondly of fishing with his father, his mother’s ability to put on a fantastic party, and the antics of a rambunctious boy who made sure life was never too quiet in the Turner household.
Ed was predeceased by the love of his life, his wife Sherri (Reid) Turner, who passed away on May 6, 2019. Ed and Sherri met while students at Appalachian State University in North Carolina in 1975. They were married on August 22, 1976. Ed and Sherri were married for 42 years. Sherri’s death had a profound impact on Ed, who was a dedicated husband and loving caregiver to his wife.
Ed and Sherri leave behind two children, Becca (Turner) Ratcliff and Edgar Craig Turner, Jr.. Becca and Craig will hold on to memories of their father and will pass stories of Ed on to his four grandchildren. Ed’s care for his wife and family are the legacy which his children seek to pass on to his grandchildren. This is one way they will hold close to the memory of their “Opa”.
For 32 years Ed worked as an electrical engineer at Kollmorgen, where he viewed his coworkers as friends and family. Sadly, Ed was only able to enjoy a few months of what should have been a long and well-earned retirement. In his free time, Ed was a long-time member of the Sauerkraut Band where he often filled the position of first chair trumpet. For many years he also played trumpet in the orchestra for Summer Musical Enterprises of Blacksburg and the Blacksburg Community Band. Ed loved to play trumpet and also loved to joke about the boisterous spirit of trumpet players, often at the expense of his son, who plays trombone.
Of his other interests, Ed loved to ride his motorcycle down country roads, watch football, and care for his dogs – his faithful companions. Ed was a great storyteller and loved to enjoy a good meal and good conversation with friends and family.
Family and friends are welcome to remember Ed and celebrate his legacy. The service will be held on April 29, 2023 at Good Shepherd Church of the Brethren (950 Heather Dr., Blacksburg, VA 24060) from 10 – 11 a.m.
