Morris E. Turner

Morris E. Turner, born on July 22, 1928, in Lebanon, Indiana, passed peacefully in his sleep on June 14, 2025, in Carmel, Indiana. Morris had a career that spanned 33 years at Guide Lamp Division of General in Anderson, Indiana where he earned a skilled trade certification as a toolmaker and product designer.  

He graduated from Anderson High School in 1947, where he first cultivated his skills in trades and tool making. He was a founding member of the Hoosier Antique & Classic Bicycle Club established in 1989, a testament to his passion for classic bikes.

In addition, Morris was a 20-year member of Train Talk, an Indianapolis-based organization dedicated to Lionel Trains, where he was known for being a Lionel purist. Music played a vital role in Morris's life. He was a member of multiple barbershop choruses, including the Delco Remy – Guide Lamp Barbershop Chorus, the Anderson Barbershop Chorus, and the Pride of Indy Barbershop Chorus. He also enjoyed his role as an organist for over 15 years, demonstrating his many musical talents.

Morris served his country honorably during the Korean War, dedicating two years to the Army Signal Corps, where he repaired radios for troops in the field. In addition to the awards he earned in Korea, he was presented with an Honor Flight (#18) to Washington, DC, in September 2016, during which he forged many new friendships and continued to build connections through the Indy Honor Flight breakfasts and reunions.

In his personal life, Morris was known for discovering unique finds at the Strawtown Flea Market, a place where he cherished moments spent visiting with friends. His interests also included cameras and model trains, which were the subjects of his fascination and hobbies.

Morris faced his last months with declining health, spending his final two months in hospice care, where he maintained a sense of peace until his passing. His many accomplishments and contributions to his community and loved ones will be remembered fondly.

He is preceded in death by his parents: Corbertt and Gertrude (Wynn) Turner; loving wife, Charline Turner, siblings: Jim Turner, Elizabeth “Betty” Ahren, Doris Stewart,  and Rosemary Ryan; and granddaughter, Johanna Blackburn. Morris is survived by his children: Janet L. (Jeff) Blackburn of Fishers, IN, and Carol A. Coburn of Anderson, IN; grandchildren: Joseph (Amanda) Blackburn of Fishers, IN, and Brant (Katelyn) Coburn of Indianapolis, IN; great-grandchildren: Graham Blackburn, Claire Blackburn, and Sophie Coburn; niece, Karen (Steve) Jones, nephew, Ron (Leslie) Turner, great-nephew, Brad Jones, and longtime friend, Jill Drexler.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Morris’s life on June 18, 2025. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at Flanner Buchanan - Oaklawn Memorial Gardens, 9700 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, Indiana. He will be laid to rest at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Morris will be deeply missed.

Memorial contributions may be made in Morris’ honor to Wesley Free Methodist Church, 3017 W. 8th Street, Anderson, IN 46011.