Ronald Franklin Turner

Ronald Turner, of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday June 20, 2024. Ron was born on February 11, 1943, in Marietta, Georgia, the son of Lena Mae (Hendon) and Worth Turner. He's survived by his wife of nearly fifty-two years, Claudia (DiRosa), his children Matthew, Peter, Amanda (Magee), son-in-law David Magee, and grandchildren Jason and Rachel Magee. He is also survived by his sisters, Sally Delamater and Karleen Turner of Georgia, his brother Karl Turner of Nevada, their spouses, children, and grandchildren. 

Ron was raised on a dairy farm in Marietta, GA, and his childhood was affected by contracting polio at the age of eleven. He was treated at Warm Springs, near Atlanta, where he developed a deep love of reading, learning, and an appreciation for listening to the stories of those around him. He attended Emory University and became a strong advocate for Civil Rights. He eventually decided to head north and completed his studies at Marlboro College in Vermont. He moved to New York City, where he met his true love, Claudia. They were married in 1972 and moved to Kennett Square with their new son, Matthew, in 1975, where they have remained to this day. 

Ron's early work-life was varied and eclectic, like him. He was a New York City taxi driver, part time journalist, teacher and Civil Rights activist, but was always focused on service to others. After marriage he settled in at the State of Delaware's Department of Corrections where he served for over thirty years as a Parole and Probation Supervisor and as a program manager for a statewide program to help parolees find permanent employment after their release. He found the work both challenging and rewarding, as he was always doing his best to help people better their lives, while being acutely aware of and empathetic toward their own personal background and experiences. He was an active volunteer in his Kennett Square community, particularly involving local politics. He lived by the example of treating everyone with kindness, grace, and respect, for which he earned the admiration and respect of everyone who knew him. 

Ron was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was ever-present; he could often be found quietly smiling (or snoozing), he was always up for a chat on any topic, trying new foods, or listening to music. He had boundless curiosity, his knowledge was vast, and he was happy to share it! He did not complain, although he added a healthy dose of humor and sarcasm to every situation. He modeled gratitude, humility, patience and unconditional love. He always had time to listen, to hug, and he never lost the twinkle in his eye. Those who knew Ron were better for it, and we are so grateful for the many gifts that he shared with all of us. 

Family and friends are invited to attend Ron's graveside service at 11:00 am on June 28, 2024, at Cathedral Cemetery, 2400 Lancaster Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19805. A lunch reception will follow at Deerfield Golf Club, 507 Thompson Station Road, Newark, DE 19711. Memorial contributions can be made to the March of Dimes www.marchofdimes.org

Arrangements are by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100) of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. To view Ronald's online obituary and leave condolences, please visit www.griecofunerals.com