Judith Ann Turner's Obituary
Judith Ann Turner was born on July 6, 1933, in Chicago, IL, to the late Louis and Dorothy (Prieb) Desch.
She graduated from Morgan Park High School in Chicago, IL in 1951. Judith graduated from the University of Illinois with her Bachelor of Science in 1955 and Master of Education in 1961. She was a member of the Alpha Gamma Delta sorority. For many years, Judith was a speech pathologist in the public schools.
On June 16, 1956, Judith was united in marriage to John Carver Turner at St. Paul’s Union Church in Chicago, IL. They were married for 67 years.
After spending time camping in Peninsula State Park, Door County, WI, with their children, Judy and John bought a small cottage in Ephraim, WI where they continued to spend summers and weekends and deepen their family’s love for nature. Judy loved gardening, quilting, and nature. She was an avid volunteer. Some of which were The Door County Land Trust, The Ephraim Moravian Church, and Toft’s Point.
On Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026, after living a life filled with purpose, love, and joy, Judy passed away peacefully.
She is survived by her loving children, John Peter Turner and his wife Deborah, and Marie Strauch and her husband David. She was a cherished grandmother to Amy Strauch, Brian Strauch, Lisa (Marc) Peschaud, Colleen Steinbraker, Corby (Dan) Wagner, Mark (Amanda) Steinbraker and Clayton Turner (Levi Lavender); 14 great grandchildren. She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many dear friends.
Judith was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, John Turner, who passed away in 2023, as well as her brother, Theodore Desch.
A memorial service will be held later this spring at the Ephraim Moravian Church in Ephraim, WI.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Judy’s honor to: The Ephraim Moravian Church, The Door County Land Trust, or the University of Illinois.
What’s your fondest memory of Judith?
What’s a lesson you learned from Judith?
Share a story where Judith's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Judith you’ll never forget.
How did Judith make you smile?