James "Jim" Curtis Turner

James Curtis Turner, 59, of Madison, AL passed away peacefully at home on December 11, 2023 with his wife and daughter by his side.

Jim was born on May 26, 1964, in Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk, England to Inez and Joseph Turner, Jr.

Jim's father was in the United States Air Force, and the family moved frequently, until they eventually settled in Colorado Springs, CO, where Jim lived the majority of his life. As a kid, Jim loved sports, as well as riding motorcycles. After high school, Jim joined the United States Navy, serving in the Naval Construction Battalions, fondly known as the Seabees. While in the Navy, Jim had the opportunity to serve in many different locations and to develop his natural talent for small engine repair. Though he enjoyed the adventure and skills he learned in the Navy, Jim resigned after six years to return home to Colorado Springs.

Shortly after moving home, Jim launched a new career as a mechanic, focusing on small engines and irrigation systems for local golf courses. Throughout his career working for golf courses, he held many different positions, including golf course superintendent. Jim loved his work, including the added benefit of being able to play golf as often as his schedule would allow. Jim also met, and later married, Peggy Garrod. Jim and Peggy enjoyed living close to family, and were favorites among their many nieces and nephews. Peggy passed away in 2000.

In 2002, a mutual friend introduced Jim to Colleen. They became friends and eventually started dating. In 2005, Jim and Colleen got married. In 2011, Jim and Colleen moved to Alabama, and in 2014, they welcomed their daughter, Ellie.  Jim retired in 2016 due to his health conditions. At home, Jim became Ellie's full-time caregiver, which he would later tell Colleen was the best job he ever had. Jim provided unwavering support to Colleen as she pursued her career goals, and was the backbone of their household.

Jim was predeceased by his mother, Inez Mary (Smith) Turner, who died in 2002, and his father, Joseph Johnson Turner, Jr., who died in 2021. He is survived by his wife, Colleen (Tully) Turner, and his daughter Eliana. Additionally, he is survived by his three brothers, and their spouses and children, including brother Anthony (Sonya), and their children, Joshua, Nigel, Heidi and Benjamin; brother Dean (Kendra), and their children, Karina and Megan; and brother David (Colleen).

Family and friends will gather to celebrate and honor Jim's life and legacy on Wednesday, December 20th at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 1055 Hughes Road, Madison, AL, 35758. Visitation will be at 10 a.m., and Mass will be at 11 a.m. with inurnment to the columbarium immediately following.