WILMINGTON – Robert Allen Turley, Sr., age 85, passed away on May 19, 2024 after a long illness.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Shirley; 4 children, Robert, Randal, Crystal, and Dana; 6 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren and a large, extended family.
His brother, Fred W. Turley, preceded him in death in 1998.
Robert was born in Poplar Bluff, MO on October 7, 1938 to Beatrice and Bimel Turley and lived and worked on the family farm. He attended Poplar Bluff public school and graduated from Southeast Missouri State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Chemistry.
He taught biology and chemistry classes at the high school for 4 years, then pursued a career in the poultry industry that culminated in becoming the President of Perdue Farms. His employees thought very highly of him because of his integrity and following through on his word.
Robert was a member of the Lutheran Church. He was an avid hiker, snow skier, and water skier and loved to explore different places while traveling. He looked forward to large family gatherings at the beach and during the holidays, especially Thanksgiving in New Orleans.
A funeral service will be held on May 24 with interment at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Wilmington, NC.
The family has asked that donations to the American Cancer Society may be made in lieu of flowers.
Condolences may be sent to the family here.
