Ms. Wilma Jean Maggard Turner, eight-six years of age, entered into her eternity on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky, surrounded by her loving family.

Wilma was born on August 24, 1936, in Benham, KY, to Lloyd Maggard and Clara Boggs Chitwood. She graduated from Whitesburg High School, an accomplishment she was so very proud of. She wished to further her education and attend college but financial hardship prevented that from happening. Wilma was an independent, hardworking woman, which served her well as she raised her five children as a single parent. Education was important to Wilma and she made sure her children accomplished - for themselves - what she wanted for herself…a college education. She was proud of her family and she was the light of their lives, their hero. There was nothing more important to Wilma than her family and she was their biggest fan, preferring to be on the sidelines, a quiet presence, cheering each of them on.

Wilma had a loving, caring, and generous spirit. Her outgoing personality allowed her to work in the retail business for over fifty years. Even after she 'retired', she frequently said she should still be working. She loved her job and serving her community. Wilma was strong in her belief and strong in her opinions. She was passionate about her flowers and enjoyed the many different variations in her flower garden. Her absence leaves a void that will never be filled.

Wilma is preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Clara; all of her siblings: Bill Maggard, Audrey Maggard, Elvert Maggard; and a son-in-law, Danny Hall.

Left to cherish her memory are her five children: Lisa Gale Hall and Kaye Oneil, both of Maynardville, TN, Sheila Short and husband, Marty, of Cumberland, KY, Bill Turner and wife, Lisa, of Rockwood, TN, and John Turner and wife, Angie, of Knoxville, TN; five grandchildren: Miranda, Shawn, Laura, Britney, William; one great-granddaughter, Summer; a large extended family and many dear friends.

Services for Wilma will be held on Saturday, April 29, 2023, at the Tri City Funeral Home in Benham, KY. Visitation will be from 1:00-2:00 with the funeral service beginning at 2:00. She will be laid to rest in the Jacob Creech Cemetery in Cumberland, KY. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Tri City Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Ms. Wilma Turner.