Mr. B. Eugene Turlington Sr., 85, beloved husband of the late Shirlee Hicks Turlington, passed away Friday, April 19, 2019, surrounded by his family. He was a resident of Chancetown, its self-appointed mayor, and where he and his wife founded Turlington Farms Incorporated in the 1950s.
Born Sept. 20, 1933, in Melfa, he was the son of the late George Thomas Turlington Sr. and the late Willyeanna Custis Turlington. He married his high school sweetheart, Shirlee, with whom he mutually treasured 64 years of marriage until her death, only four months prior to his passing. Neither are suffering any longer here on earth, and their final eternal reunion is a celebration for all.
A lifelong farmer, Mr. and Mrs. Turlington enjoyed their farm life, and treasured family activities both at home and around their farm properties. They attended and supported several churches throughout the years. One of Mr. Turlington’s favorite church activities was ushering and “taking up collections,” which gave him the opportunity to share some of his favorite pastimes with friends … conversations, socializing, and good, down-to-earth joking with others. Truly, Mr. Turlington’s ultimate “church” was in his fields, surrounded by nature’s beauty, and reflecting on God’s natural creations.
Survivors include four children, B. Eugene “Chip” Turlington, of Chancetown, Pamela T. Widgeon and Paul, of Belle Haven, Kandice Bruno and Eric, of Exmore, and Peter Turlington and Catherine, of Onancock; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and a niece and two nephews. In addition to his loving wife and parents, he was predeceased by a brother, G.T. Turlington Jr.
A celebration of Mr. Turlington’s life was held Wednesday, April 24, 2019, at Melfa United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Glenda Turlington officiating. Private family interment was held in the Turlington Home Place Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Melfa United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 276, Melfa, VA 23410.
Memory tributes may be shared with the family at www.williamsfuneralhomes.com
Arrangements were made by the Williams-Onancock Funeral Home.
