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Obituary For Mrs. Bernice Turner
Mrs. Bernice Horne Turner was born on June 21, 1934, in Norwood, NC, to the late Missouri and Mandy Mininall Horne. She peacefully departed this life on October 22, 2025.
Bernice received her education in the Stanly County Schools and graduated from Norwood Colored School, where she excelled as an All-Star basketball player. She accepted Christ at an early age and was a faithful servant of the Lord throughout her life.
A devoted and longtime member of First Emmanuel Baptist Church in High Point, NC. Bernice lovingly served as “Mother of the Church.” Over the years, she was an active participant in several ministries, including the Missionary Circle, Flower Committee, Pastor’s Aide, and Sunday School. She also took it upon herself to ensure her senior friends had transportation to church, demonstrating her heart for service and community.
Bernice worked more than 30 years at P. Lorillard Tobacco Company in Greensboro, NC. Outside of her work and church, she was known for her impeccable style and love for fashion. She had an extensive collection of fine hats that she often paired with high heels, exquisite accessories, and gorgeous suits. Shopping brought her great joy, and she carried herself with grace and elegance wherever she went.
She valued keeping her mind sharp by completing word search and puzzle books. Above all, Bernice was a pillar of strength for her family. Bernice was the Matriarch of the Family. She made her family a priority, supporting them in all their endeavors and especially cherishing time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Bernice was preceded in death by her parents, Mandy and John Ballard; her son, Gerald Turner; brothers, Clifton and McKenzie Ballard; and sisters, Rev. Lena Mae Benjamin and Dianne Ballard.
She leaves to cherish her memory: a devoted son, John Turner (Cheryl) of Charlotte, NC; a loving daughter, Rosa Simpson (James) of High Point, NC; one sister, Jenetha Ballard of Badin, NC; and one brother, Jerry Ballard (Geraldine) of High Point, NC; she is also survived by five grandchildren, John Turner Jr. of Greensboro, NC; Cara Elaine Turner Gripper (Joseph) of Charlotte, NC; Renee Simpson of High Point, NC; Matthew Simpson of High Point, NC and Sharon Little of High Point, NC; eight great-grandchildren, Greyson Turner, Harper Gripper, Nova Gripper, Rhiley Gripper, Robert James Erwin, Dallas McLendon, Julian Erwin, and Na’Sir Little; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.
Bernice will be remembered for her kindness, unwavering faith, elegant style, love for her family, and the legacy of strength and grace she leaves behind.
Funeral service will be held Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. at First Emmanuel Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Carolina Biblical Gardens. The family will receive friends at the church from 11:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.
Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.
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Hello, Family:
Our Love and Prayers to all! Trust God to Comfort you.
Mother Bernice Turner was truly a Mother to us--Rev. Bobby W. Green, Jr. and Dr. Gwendolyn Johnson-Green. We Loved and respected Mother Turner.
Mother Turner's son Gerald was my classmate--Gwen
Mother Bernice Turner was our "Fashion Queen". She modeled for us everyday. She taught us how to play an outfit from head to toe.
Look up, Family, and think of the Love and Greatness Mother Turner shared all over our great city of High Point, NC.
God Bless All!
Rev. Bobby W. Green, Jr. and Dr. Gwendolyn Johnson-Green
To John and Family, Your Mother was beautiful inside and out, wore her clothes like fashion model. Praying for you and the Family, may God bless you and give you peace and comfort. Andy Gilmer and Family.
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Ms.Bernice and my grandmother were friends back in the day. They shared lots of laughs as friends do. I remember a day trip going to Norwood with them. I loved to hear Ms. Bernice laugh she was so joyful to be around. Family I'm so sorry for your loss she will be missed.
Mrs. Turner I will never forget you. You were such a blessing to my Grandmother Mary E. Haywood. You would take her out shopping & out to eat. You were as beautiful inside & out. I remember sitting in Church waiting to see what you were wearing. Take your rest. Love you always ♥️🌹♥️
To the family of Sister Turner my heartfelt Condolences 💐 & Prayers 🙏🏽. She was my girl! Always so caring and kind. I'm definitely gonna miss her sweet smile sitting over in the corner at church sharp as a tack!! She would call to check on me constantly when I was going through my rough times. Rest on sweet friend fly high until we meet again 🕊️💕🕊️💕 You're truly gonna be missed and never forgotten ❤️❤️❤️ John & Vickey McCullough
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
