With profound sadness—and with deep gratitude for a life so beautifully lived—we celebrate the life and legacy of Debbie Turner, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and servant leader, whose impact will resonate through generations.

Debbie Turner was born on March 23, 1964, in Buffalo, New York, to the late Dan and Melverene King. As the youngest of five children, Debbie’s light and joy were evident from the very beginning. She shared an unbreakable bond with her siblings and was a source of laughter, comfort, and strength. She is preceded in death by her beloved sister Oceal Rozell, and leaves behind her devoted siblings Deborah Nichols, Mary Gestine Anderson, and Dan Jr. (Michelle) King, who will cherish her memory.

Debbie was a proud and nurturing mother to her one and only daughter, Dr. Alexandria (Christopher) Robers—lovingly known as her 'Sugar Plum'—who brought immeasurable pride and purpose to her life. Her endless love, guidance, and wisdom helped shape Alexandria into the remarkable woman she is today. Debbie truly was the best mother in the world.

Debbie was a cherished aunt and great-aunt to many, including Aretha Grace, her children Regi Jr., Rashard, and Ranard Grace, Danielle King, John Jr., Sandra, Patrick, Chanita, and Keith Nichols whom she mentored with unmatched grace. She held a deep and abiding love for her extended family and never missed an opportunity to uplift and encourage those she loved.

Along her journey, Debbie also found a bonus mother in Ms. Barbara Cole with whom she shared a special bond rooted in their shared compassion, faith, and giving spirits.

A new, love-filled chapter began on October 24, 2021, when Debbie married the love of her life, Kelvin Turner, in a dreamlike wedding on the shores of Destin, Florida. It was a “Cinderella moment” that beautifully symbolized their deep connection and devotion. Their marriage was filled with laughter, travel, shared dreams, and sacred stillness—moments of joy that both cherished deeply. Rooted in unity, respect, and unconditional love, they built a blended family filled with laughter and care—including sons Korey and Kwinton Turner, and two grandchildren, Kyrie and Kai, who brought her immense joy as their devoted 'Mimi.' She poured her soul into her family—always present, always loving.

Debbie’s journey of excellence began early. She graduated from Hinds County Agricultural High School in Utica, Mississippi, where her drive, discipline, and compassion began to blossom. She later earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources and Personnel Management from the University of Southern Mississippi, and went on to obtain her Master of Science from Strayer University, a testament to her commitment to growth, learning, and leadership. Education was not just a personal pursuit for Debbie; it was a value she modeled and encouraged in everyone around her.

In addition to her academic accomplishments, Debbie dedicated herself to sisterhood and service. Known affectionately by her line name, ‘Perfection,’ Debbie was also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., an organization she joined in 1984 with her line sisters Thecia Smith, Sheryl Matthews, Elesia Williams, and Valerie Williams. Her involvement was more than symbolic—it was an embodiment of the sorority’s principles: sisterhood, scholarship, and service. She gave tirelessly of her time, energy, and heart to uplift others, especially women and young people seeking guidance and encouragement.

A proud patriot, Debbie served honorably in the United States Army Reserves from 1989 to 1997, where she developed an even deeper sense of duty, structure, and resilience. Her professional journey led her to General Motors Corporation, where she devoted 23 years of exceptional service. There, she was not only respected for her work ethic and skill, but loved for her uplifting spirit and unwavering integrity.

A woman of unshakable faith, Debbie was an active and faithful member of Divine Faith Church, where her commitment to service and worship was steadfast. She lived her faith openly, generously, and humbly. Her spiritual walk was not just something she professed, but something she practiced daily through acts of kindness, mentorship, and unconditional love.

Above all, Debbie lived a life of grace, generosity, and purpose. She had an unmatched ability to plan and execute extraordinary events, not for recognition, but out of love and joy in creating moments that brought people together. She was the hand that held others steady, and the soul that reminded us all of what it means to give freely, love deeply, and live fully.

Those who knew Debbie will remember her radiant smile, her gentle but powerful voice of encouragement, her thoughtful gestures, and her unshakeable belief in the good in others. She was a nurturer, a leader, a warrior, and a beacon of hope and love. Her kindness was infectious, her generosity boundless, and her impact immeasurable.

As we say goodbye for now, we take solace in knowing that Debbie’s spirit lives on in every life she touched, in every life lesson she taught, and in every heart she loved.

She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
—Isaiah 41:10