Lila Ann Turpin, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and pillar of strength, passed away May 1, 2024, at the age of 89.
Her long and beautiful life touched the hearts of all who knew her, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and resilience. Born Aug. 14, 1934, in Dickenson County, Va., Lila was the daughter of Noah Bradley Lambert (d. 2002) and Ritter T Sutherland (d. 2000).
She grew up with a deep appreciation for family values, a strong faith and work ethic, and perseverance; qualities that would define her character throughout her life. Lila married Eugene Turpin in May of 1956, which spanned four decades until Eugene’s passing in 1997. Eugene’s military position meant that he and Lila moved frequently with their kids in tow, nationally and internationally, finally settling back to Virginia upon retirement. She served her country in military support and in prayer. A dedicated homemaker and caretaker, Lila found purpose in her physical, emotional, and spiritual support of others. She wholeheartedly loved and gave to her family, her church, her community, and her friends, knowing that the true measure of love is found in action. In later years she found purpose in a card ministry, sending hundreds each year for all occasions.
She enjoyed giving hugs, many times to those she did not know but felt they needed encouragement. Her legacy is a testament to the enduring power of selfless love, reminding us that the greatest joy comes from giving without expecting, and by nurturing others to grow ourselves. Lila’s journey was not without loss, as she bid farewell to beloved family members and friends throughout her life.
She is reunited in eternal peace with her husband, Eugene, and her siblings, Milton L. Lambert, Pauline L. Martin, and N.B. Lambert, who preceded her in death. Her brothers C. Gray Lambert and Harold D. Lambert are still with us today. Lila’s memory lives on in the hearts of her surviving children, Pamela (Randy) Croy, Donna (Jay) Fox, Jerry (Darlene) Turpin, and Ronald (Tammy) Turpin, a very special friend Becky Corso, as well as her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family.
Lila’s life was marked by milestones of meaningful connections. She devoted herself to family, creating cherished traditions and moments of laughter that echoed through the years. Her home was a haven of warmth and hospitality, where gatherings were filled with love and homemade meals that brought her so much joy to share. Her zest for life was contagious, evident in her love for a good challenge, be it tackling jigsaw puzzles, solving crosswords, or perfecting her beautiful calligraphy. She believed in savoring life’s simple joys, from the occasional vacation travel with her children, dancing at her grandchildren’s weddings or to the lively tunes of bluegrass music and the excitement of loudly cheering her beloved Hokies onto victory. In these ways, she leaves behind a reminder to all of us to dance to the rhythm of life’s melodies, solve its puzzles with patience, and love those around us boldly and without restraint.
A celebration of Lila’s life was held May 5, 2024 at McCoy Funeral Home followed by a graveside service at Westview Cemetery in Blacksburg. The family received friends before the service. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Community Christian Church in Newbern in honor of Lila and in service of her Lord. Lila will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her love, laughter, and the enduring legacy of kindness she leaves behind. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Good Samaritan Hospice and Commonwealth Assisted Living in Radford.