James Ray Turner
James Ray Turner Jr., 77, of Bedford, Virginia, passed away in the early morning hours of August 29, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Costaline Ayers Turner and James Ray Turner Sr., as well as his son-in-law, Steven Bratton.
James is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Mary Payne Turner, and their three children: Traci Turner Bratton, James Ray “Jimbob” Turner III (Tomi Leah), and Thomas “Tommy” Turner (Wendy). He was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Robert (Nichole), Codey, James Alex (Jasmine), Aaron (Warren), Kaitlynn, Jackson, and Olivia, and a beloved great-grandfather to five: Sebastian, Sterling, Thomas, Adalae, and Ellie.
He is also survived by his sister, Patricia Goode, and his brother, Billy Wayne Turner (Rita), along with many extended family members and friends who will remember him fondly.
James was a lifelong resident and farmer in Bedford County,part of the third generation of the Turner family to live and work on the Turner Dairy Farm. He worked side by side with his father and brother for decades, planting every acre of corn ever grown on the family land. In his early years, he also worked as an AI technician for Select Sires.
A dedicated steward of the land and community, James spent countless hours milking cows, tending crops, and supporting agricultural growth in the region. He served on the Board of Directors for the Bedford County Farm Bureau and the Southern States Co-op, where his leadership left a lasting impact.
James was also a member of Pecks Baptist Church. He was known for his warm, outgoing nature, he never met a stranger-always ready to strike up a conversation or share a laugh. He was known for his good-natured teasing and friendly conversations with everyone he encountered. His presence, generosity, and legacy will be deeply missed by his loved ones and by many throughout Bedford County.
A funeral service will be held on Monday, September 1, 2025 at Pecks Baptist Church at 2:00 pm with Rev. Wayne Murphy, Pastor Brandon Palmer and Sam Williams officiating. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Ephesus Church Cemetery at Otter Hill.
Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.
