Thomas "Tip" Allen Turner, a devoted husband, brother, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, was unexpectedly called home on November 19, 2025. His passing has left his family and community deeply shocked and saddened, yet they take comfort in knowing that Tom is now at peace with his Heavenly Father.

Tom, who was affectionately known as "Tip" was the youngest of fifteen children born to George and Hollie Turner on December 3, 1940, in Newton, Massachusetts. He spent his childhood in West Newton, in a historic neighborhood known as "the Village." Tom was a rambunctious youth, enjoying sports, being part of a large family, and maintained an active presence in Myrtle Baptist Church, a longstanding cornerstone of the Village community.

Tom's early education was in Newton Public schools; Davis Elementary School, Warren Junior High School, and Newton High School. Later he graduated from Bentley College with a Degree in Business and Accounting.

Tom first met Etheline B. Lane during their elementary school years. Their friendship blossomed into a high school romance and ultimately into marriage. They shared more than 67 years together. They were blessed with three daughters, Hollie (Turner) Hall, Terri Turner, and Darline Turner. They were further blessed with 4 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren who brought immeasurable joy and affection into their lives. To them, Tom and Etheline were lovingly known as Poppy and Mimmie.

Tom's profound love for the Lord was instilled in him by his mother at an early age. Growing up in a home next door to Myrtle Baptist Church, his devotion to the congregation and its mission became a lifelong passion. As a youth, he actively participated in numerous church programs, later assuming greater responsibilities as a trusted member of the Trustee Board. For more than five decades, he faithfully served as church treasurer. In addition, Tom played a pivotal role in overseeing renovations of Myrtle Baptist Church in 1974. He was instrumental in managing the extensive renovation, keeping the timeline on track and on budget. Over the years, Tom remained attentive to the upkeep of Myrtle Baptist Church, ensuring that any maintenance needs were promptly addressed. His watchful care and willingness to step in whenever something required fixing reflected his deep devotion to the church and its community.

Tom's dedication and strong work ethic shaped a distinguished professional career spanning more than six decades. He worked at Shell Oil company for several years then moved on to Purity Supreme Supermarkets, Inc., where his commitment and leadership carried him through the ranks to serve as the Vice President of Physical Properties for the once-iconic regional chain. He later brought his expertise in commercial maintenance and property management to BJ's Wholesale Warehouse, contributing to the growth and operations of the expanding company. Tom concluded his career at the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority, affectionately known as "The T," where he retired as Supervising Manager of Rail Systems, overseeing the operation and maintenance of transit lines across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. After retiring Tom worked as a consultant for Advance Rail Management, a private rail maintenance company until his late 70s before health issues required him to stop working.

As a lifelong resident of Newton, Tom was active in various community organizations like the Black Citizens of Newton (BCON).  Embracing his role as a devoted "girl dad," he served as President of the PTA at Carr School and was also involved with the Newton Community Parents organization. His commitment to civic engagement extended to historic preservation, as he contributed to the committee responsible for restoring and safeguarding the Nathaniel Allen House, a landmark cultural and artistic center in Newton.  Beyond his many responsibilities, Tom also found joy in recreation as a member of the Myrtle Giants Baseball Team.

Over the years, Tom and Etheline delighted in taking cruises with their friends, creating cherished memories on the open seas. Yet their truest sanctuary was closer to home—their beloved summer home in Wells, Maine—where they found peace, joy, and often invited family to join them.

Alongside his lifelong friend and colleague, Reverend Howard Haywood—whom he had known since elementary school—Tom worked to establish the Myrtle Village, an affordable housing development located across from Myrtle Baptist Church in West Newton. Together, they formed a formidable partnership, tirelessly advocating for affordable housing and the rights of Black citizens in Newton. In addition, Tom served as an active member of the Newton Housing Authority, where he played a pivotal role in the development of Haywood House, a senior housing community dedicated to providing affordable residences for Newton's elder population.

As Tom grew older, health challenges limited his participation in certain activities, yet his spirit remained vibrant. He cherished time spent with family and friends, especially the biennial Turner Family reunions. He proudly incorporated the reunion T-shirts as part of his everyday wardrobe. He also found great joy in the monthly "Old Dudes" luncheons, a tradition created by his lifelong friend, Reverend Howard Haywood.

Tom—fondly remembered as Tip, Daddy, Uncle, Poppie, and Good Friend—leaves behind a family and community who mourn his passing with heavy hearts. Yet even in their grief, remain uplifted by the enduring gifts he bestowed: his steadfast love, his guiding wisdom, and the countless memories he created throughout his lifetime.

He leaves to mourn and cherish his memory -  his devoted wife, Etheline B. Turner; his loving daughters, Hollie Hall, Terri Turner, and Darline Turner; his beloved grandchildren, Paris Hall Jr., Keenan Hall, Vanessa Lee, and Myles Lee; great-granddaughters, Zahara Hall and Emery Hall, his remaining sibling, June Lowe, his brother in-law Jesse Banks, his godchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.

Tom was predeceased by his parents, George and Hollie Turner, his brothers Levi Turner, Henry Turner, James Turner, Samuel Turner, Robert Turner, and William Turner. His sisters Candace Haywood, Cornelia Johnson, Leahnora Hill, MaryEllen Ricks, Ozella Evans, Elizabeth Nichols, Joan Banks, and his son in-law Paris R. Hall Sr.

From his daughters:  We will miss you more than words could ever convey, yet we are extremely grateful to have been blessed with you as our father.  May you rest peacefully, reunited with the loved ones you so dearly missed, while your love and memory continue to live within us forever.