Stephen V. Turner, age 73, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Monday afternoon, November 6, 2017, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon.

   He was born August 30, 1944, in Flora, to the late Victor and Lorena Bell “Sis” (Ruger) Turner.  He was united in marriage to Ruby Irene Cooper on March 16, 1968, in Flora, and shared 27 years of marriage with her.  She preceded him in death July 22, 1995.

   Stephen worked early in life as a painter alongside his father, and later was employed by Valley Steel/Jennmar for 25 years, and then Sparton Manufacturing and Xenia Manufacturing.  He enjoyed watching old westerns, and most certainly those starring John Wayne.  All kinds of sports interested him, especially the St. Louis Cardinals along with the legacy of his favorite baseball icon, Stan Musial.  He was also a fan of the Raiders and Cowboys football teams.  Stephen was of the Christian faith, and had been a member at the First Church of God in Flora.

   He is survived by his son: Stephen V. Turner II of Flora; brother: Christopher K. Turner (wife Sandy) of O’Fallon; daughter: Shavonna Jenkins (husband Heath) of Flora, and their son, Trenton (significant other Sophia) and granddaughter, Avisynn, and daughter: Melissa Milner (husband Larry) of Flora, and their sons, Brennon and Blaine; and Shane DeVore’s sons, Skyler and Ashton; as well as nieces and nephews and aunts and uncles.

   He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Ruby Turner; sister: Janice Ann Hudgins; fiancé Sharon DeVore; son: Shane DeVore and his son, Bryce DeVore-Rinehart.

   A funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, November 11, 2017, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora with Brother Rodney Payne officiating.  Interment will be in Elmwood Cemetery.  A visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.  Memorials are suggested to Shriners Hospitals for Children.