James C. Turner, age 90, of Xenia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at his home, surrounded by the loving family he cherished so deeply.

Jim was born June 4, 1936, at the family farm in Xenia, the son of Louis and Muriel (Fair) Turner. From those early days on the farm, Jim developed a love for family, hard work, the outdoors, and the simple joys of life that stayed with him throughout his 90 years.

He was blessed to share 70 wonderful years with the love of his life, Ruth Ann (Shoup) Turner. Together, they built a beautiful family and a lifetime of memories. Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth Ann; his children, Marcus (Diane) Turner, Christy (Cleve) Gregory, Julie (Paul) Hamilton, and Robyn Caupp; 13 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren; sisters, Bonnie (Dion) Kiger, Kathy Hill, and Joy Hill; brothers, Louis (Ealon) Turner, Phil (Judy) Turner, and Steve (Lisa) Turner; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. His family was his greatest source of pride and joy. He loved watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren participate in sporting events and could often be found in the stands, proudly cheering them on. The memories he made with his family will continue to live on through the many lives he touched.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his sisters, Muriel Curry, Judy Kiger, and Carolyn Mountjoy; brothers, Robert Turner, Keith Turner, and Loren Turner; stepmother, Garnet Turner; and grandson, Brennon Hamilton.

Jim was a proud graduate of Beavercreek High School, Class of 1955. A talented three-sport athlete, he was a member of the state championship baseball teams in 1952 and 1953. He earned an impressive 10 varsity letters and achieved special recognition in each sport he played. A standout catcher for four seasons, Jim was inducted into the Beavercreek Athletic Hall of Fame in 2013.

After high school, Jim proudly served in the U.S. Army. His love of baseball and sports continued throughout his life. He played slow-pitch softball from 1957 through 1973 and was a member of three world tournament teams. In 1978, he was inducted into the Dayton-area Men's Slow-Pitch Softball Hall of Fame.

Jim worked as a carpenter at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base for 33 years. A true farm boy at heart, he never lost his love for the land. His passion for farming continued well into his late 70s. He enjoyed gardening, hunting, fishing, and golfing, but some of his happiest moments were spent simply being with the people he loved.

Jim was also a faithful member of First Church of Christ in Xenia for 55 years. His faith was an important part of his life and helped guide him through the many seasons of his journey.

Jim leaves behind a legacy built on love, family, faith, hard work, and a life well lived. He will be deeply missed by his wife of 70 years, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, extended family, and countless friends. While his absence will leave an immeasurable hole in the hearts of those who loved him, his stories, his laughter, his love of family, and the memories he created will live on for generations to come.

Funeral Service will be held 12:00 PM Wednesday October 7th, at the First Church of Christ, 441 Ledbetter Road, Xenia, with Reverend Andy Spencer officiating. Where visitation will be held from 10:30 AM until the time of service. Burial will follow at Mt. Zion Park Cemetery.