James Hilton Turner

James Hilton Turner, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great‑grandfather, veteran, and friend, passed away on March 26, 2026, at the age of 77. A lifelong resident of Quinlan, Texas, James was known for his strong work ethic, deep love of family, and unwavering patriotism.

Born on December 22, 1948, James lived a life defined by service, craftsmanship, and commitment to those he loved. He worked proudly as both a carpenter and butcher, trades that reflected his skill, diligence, and ability to provide for his family through honest labor.

James was a proud United States Marine who served his country during the Vietnam War. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1966 at just 17 years old and served until 1969, when he was wounded and medically discharged. For his bravery and sacrifice, James was awarded three Purple Hearts, honors he carried with quiet pride. On June 7, 1969, James married the love of his life, Linda Joyce Jackson, in Dallas, Texas. In 1971, they made their home in Quinlan, where they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family traditions.

James was an avid outdoorsman and passionate bass fisherman. He was a proud member of the Lake Tawakoni Bass Club, where he earned numerous fishing trophies over the years. He also loved bowling and competed in several bowling leagues during the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Sports played a major role in James’s life. He volunteered countless hours coaching youth baseball, football, and soccer—long before he had children of his own. A lifelong sports fan, James especially loved NASCAR and was known to arrange his Sundays so he could sit in his recliner and watch the races uninterrupted. When NASCAR wasn’t on, he cheered faithfully for the Dallas Cowboys, always hopeful for another Super Bowl run.

James was a devoted member of the International Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF), Purple Heart Association, Disabled Veterans Association, American Legion, and was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

Above all else, James loved his family. He never missed his children’s sporting events, band concerts, or activities—and that dedication continued with his grandchildren. His presence, encouragement, and pride were constant fixtures in their lives.

James is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Linda Joyce Jackson Turner of Quinlan, Texas; his sons, Jason Todd Turner and wife Dorota Katarzyna Turner of Murphy, Texas, and Brandon Heath Turner and wife Leslie Gail Turner of Quinlan, Texas; his eight grandchildren: Tamara Nickol Turner, RyLee Hunter Turner, Brennan Heather Turner Sims, Magdalena Sylvia Zalewski, Daniel Zalewski, Hailey Trundle, Hannah Muro, and Holly Conley; his three great‑grandchildren: Jamsley Hope Turner, Guinevere Hadley Mae Turner, and Quinn Trundle; his sister, Vickie Marlene Turner Arnold; his brother, Forest Wayne Turner; and his lifelong best friend, Jimmy Bateman.

James was preceded in death by his father, Marland Martin Turner; his mother, Norma Dean Parker Turner; his brothers, Tony Martin Turner and Larry Keith Turner; and his beloved daughter, Tamera Darlene Turner.

James Hilton Turner will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of service, dedication, humor, and love for family will live on through generations.

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Funeral Services

Quinlan Funeral Home
8930 Hwy 34
Quinlan, Texas 75474

Visitation:
April 1, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. (because he was a prankster)

Funeral Service:
April 2, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

Interment:
Dallas National Cemetery
April 15, 2026, at 1:30 p.m.

Officiant:
Chaplain Dennis Kirkland

Pallbearers:
Jonathan Oland
Dewayne Hooten
Kody Blythe
Dustin Haywood
Jeff Bush
Gary Kennon

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In Lieu of Flowers

The family requests that, if you feel led, donations be made in James’s honor to PTSDUSA.org, supporting veterans affected by post‑traumatic stress disorder.