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J. Paul Turner, 86, of Belo, passed away at his residence on Wednesday morning, November 7, 2012.

Born March 7, 1926, at Tom’s Creek, Wise County, Va., he was the son of the late Gertrude Tackett Thompson and Dewey Thompson of Belo.

In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his first wife of 45 years, Marie Newsome Turner; and a beloved son, Michael Turner.

Paul was a retired Mingo County educator. He was the superintendent of the school system from 1975 to 1976.

Paul began his teaching career in 1963 at Jenny’s Creek Elementary. He went on to serve as the principal at Marrowbone Elementary, Kermit Grade, Lenore Grade and Lenore Jr. High. He also taught at Lenore High School. Paul retired on June 10, 1988, after 25 years of dedicated service.

Paul spent 16 years of his life working for Island Creek Coal Company as a coal miner prior to becoming an educator. He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1943 at the tender age of 17 and bravely and honorably served his country during World War II.

Paul was an avid reader and always seemed to be holding a book in his hands. His children will most especially remember him this way. He will be lovingly remembered and sorely missed always.

Paul is survived by his devoted wife of 16 years, Mary Jean Webb Turner; his loving children, Paula Kay (Greg) Maynard of Belo and Alan (Renee) Turner of Cincinnati, Ohio; his daughter-in-law, Lynda Turner of Ona, and a son he gained by virtue of his marriage to Mary Jean, Dr. Barry (Sharon) Marcum of Atlanta, Ga.; eight grandchildren, Christina (Josh) Tremill, Holly Maynard, Paul Michel Turner, Daniel Turner, Nathan Turner, Jacob Turner, Russell Marcum and Ellie Marcum. Also surviving is a special niece, Sharon Newsome Ingram of Williamson.

The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday evening, November 9, at Weaver Mortuary in West Williamson. Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Saturday, November 10, at the mortuary. Dallas Moore will preside. Interment is in the family cemetery at Belo. Paul Michael, Daniel, Nathan and Jacob Turner, Josh Tremill, Jerome Newsome, Eugene Ingram, Gary and Tom Newsome, Chase Ingram, John Hutcheson and Barry Mounts will serve as active pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers include Johnny Brown, Jim Webb, Vinnie Pallation and Bob Tackett.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.weavermortuaryinc.com. Weaver Mortuary of West Williamson is serving the Turner family.