Holly Springs - Smithey Eugene “Gene” Turner, 53, passed away suddenly on Friday, June 22, 2012. A Celebration of Life was held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 24, at Holly Springs Methodist Church, 108 Avent Ferry Rd, Holly Springs. Family received friends after the service in the church fellowship hall.

He was preceded in death by his father, Smithey Turner.

Gene was born and grew up in Wake County. He attended Fuquay-Varina High School. Gene grew up farming with his family and continued to farm tobacco, soybeans, and maintained a large bountiful garden that he shared with family, friends, and neighbors.

He is survived by his wife, Gail Turner of 27 years; daughter, Lauren Turner of the home; mother, Louise Turner; sister, Carolyn Clark; brother, Steve Turner; many nieces, nephews, and extended family whom he loved dearly.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in honor of Gene Turner to Holly Springs United Methodist Church, PO Box 68, Holly Springs, NC, 27540.