Robert Gene Turner

Robert Gene Turner, lovingly known as Bobby, was born on December 13, 1947, in Sulphur, Oklahoma, to Robert Earl and Patricia Ann Turner. He was the eldest of three children, followed by his younger brother, Joey, and sister, Tammy. Bobby passed away on July 1, 2025, at the age of 77.

Bobby spent his early childhood in Davis, Oklahoma, where he developed a love for simple pleasures like Chef Boyardee and fried potatoes — meals he would’ve happily eaten every day. He later moved to Marshall, Oklahoma, where he graduated from high school and met the love of his life, Sally Berry. The two were married on November 25, 1966, and spent 55 years together before Sally passed away in 2021.

Growing up, Bobby spent many summers with his grandparents in Fairfax, Oklahoma, a time he cherished deeply. He formed a special bond with his granddad, who often encouraged him to spin tall tales, much to his mother’s amusement. Bobby would recount these stories for years, sharing them with his own children, Angela, Melissa, and Bobby Jr.

A man of many talents, Bobby was a jack of all trades. His career began as a backhoe operator, and he and Sally ran a gas station for several years. He later became a pipeline welder, earning the nickname “Wormy Welder,” which also served as his CB handle. As an entrepreneur, Bobby started his own business, B.T. Boring, where he laid fiber telecommunication cable. His son, Bobby Jr., worked alongside him for many years, learning the trade firsthand. Over the past 30 years, Bobby shifted to inspecting fiber optic cable placement, a role that showcased his expertise and attention to detail.

Bobby was also a gifted mechanic who could fix anything — a skill that earned him the respect of everyone around him. Whether it was tinkering on a car or answering a tricky question, Bobby was always happy to share his knowledge. His passion for cars and racing remained with him throughout his life, from his beloved '54 Ford-that he shared many stories with his son about all through the years- to stock three-wheelers and the iconic GTO Judge, a car he raced and won many trophies with. Family weekends were often spent attending events involving fast engines, or on their jet boat. He also enjoyed playing the drums, with the song "Wipeout" being one of his family's most cherished memories.

As his grandchildren came along, Bobby’s love for adventure continued. He had a Mack truck, and he would take the grandkids for rides, something they fondly remember. Bobby also introduced the younger generation to the thrill of slot car racing, a pastime he enjoyed immensely.
Bobby’s impact extended far beyond his family. His work ethic, mechanical genius, and generosity were a guiding influence on his children, grandchildren, and many others in his community. Some of his children and grandchildren pursued careers in fields like welding, trucking, and telecommunications, inspired by the lessons Bobby imparted over the years.

An avid Harley rider, Bobby always had a big, rigged-up truck and was incredibly proud of his vehicles.

Angie cherished being able to bring her family to many different places to visit her parents during holidays and summers over the years and is thankful for all many memories that were made during those wonderful times. He lived most of his life with or around his daughter Melissa’s family, with whom he shared a close, loving relationship. His role as Papa to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him immeasurable joy, and he treasured his time with the little ones.

His children will forever miss hearing his familiar phone greeting, “What’s up, kiddo?” — a sign of his deep affection and playful nature.

Bobby was a devoted husband, father, papa, and great-papa. He worked tirelessly to provide for and care for his family, and his love for them was unwavering. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Bobby is survived by his mother, Patty Turner; his brother, Joey (Linda) Turner; his sister, Tammy Endecott; his children, Angela Mackay, Melissa (Billy) Hoots, and Bobby Turner; his grandchildren, Michael (Simone) Watson, Cory (Brittany) Watson, Ashley Murray, Casey Hoots, Brooke Oxner, Colby (Whitney) Murray, Chealsey Turner, Kaitlynd Turner, Chad Mackay, and Seanna Turner; and 20 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sally Turner; his father, Robert Turner; his son-in-law, Ronnie Mackay (Angela); and his grandson, Isaac Turner.

Pallbearers will be Michael Watson, Cory Watson, Casey Hoots, Caden Watson, Nathaniel Watson, and Ryan Cagle.

A service to celebrate Bobby's life will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 3:30 PM, with visitation starting at 2:30 PM. The service will be officiated by Ronnie Fendley.