Bobby Joe Turner

In Loving Memory of Bobby Turner

Affectionately known as “Granddaddy,” “Bobby Joe,” or simply Bob, Bobby Turner lived a long and beautiful life. He was born on December 19, 1932, to loving parents Otis and Hazel Turner.

Bob was a hardworking man, dedicated above all to his family—everything he did was for them. He attended Fordsville High School and Brescia University. A proud Army veteran, he served during the Korean War, where he was stationed in Germany and worked on tanks.

Over the years, Bob wore many hats. He was a farmer of tobacco and Black Angus cattle, and in 2001 he was named a Kentucky Colonel. He also worked in manufacturing management before finding his calling in car sales with Bluegrass Lincoln Mercury, where he was a salesman of the year for decades. His unmatched work ethic often outshone peers half his age.

Bob was compassionate, caring, loving, and hilarious. If you were around him, you were guaranteed to laugh—his quick one-liners came out of nowhere and always hit the mark. He had a true gift with words.

He loved tending his garden, spending time with his beloved dogs Peanut, Casper, and Bandit, and watching his favorite shows—Judge Judy, Family Feud, Dexter, and The Walking Dead. He loved being with his family, eating out, cheering for the UL Cardinals, and listening to Elvis Presley. A lifelong fan of horse racing, Bob made yearly trips to Churchill Downs on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. His favorite betting advice was: “Get a hunch, bet a bunch!”

He was also known for his cure-alls—Vicks VapoRub, Desitin, and Listerine—which he swore could fix anything.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents Otis and Hazel Turner; his sister, Ilene Lyons; his brothers, Otis Turner and Thurman Turner; and Otis “Bubby” Lyons.

He is survived by his daughters: Lori Vornberger (John), Toni Turner (Coy), and Bridgette Metcalf (Jeff); his grandchildren: Bradley Turner (Jessica), Jeremy Wade, Kaelyn Fritz (Jamie), Turner Metcalf, and Teagan Metcalf; his great-grandchildren: Paxton, Payton, Bryson, and Hunter; his former wives, Mary Young and Shelia Thompson; and his nephew, Troy “Leon” Lyons.

To our dad: we will miss you beyond words. You were our “go-to” when life got rough, our sanity in a crazy world, and our comfort when we needed clarity. You were always someone we could count on. Though a straight shooter, you shared wisdom without judgment and always guided us with love. Because of you, we carry strong hearts, a deep love for family, and an unshakable work ethic. Thank you, Dad, for your calls, your advice, and the love you poured into us. We are better people because of you, and we will forever carry you in our hearts.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, September 20th 2025 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Southeast Christian Church, Blakenbaker Campus Chapel, located at 920 Blakenbaker Parkway, Louisville, KY 40243. A service to celebrate Bob's life will follow visitation at 12:00 pm in the chapel and a reception for family and friends will follow in the Fireside Room from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. 

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