Sandra Williams Turner

Sandra Williams Turner, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025, in Orange Park, Florida, at the age of 81, surrounded by loved ones.

Sandra was born on June 1, 1943, in Columbia, South Carolina, to the late Rebecca and Paul Williams. She grew up in Waycross, Georgia, where she graduated from Waycross High School, and spent her life giving generously to those she loved.

Sandra’s journey was marked by her unwavering love for her family and her remarkable strength. A cancer survivor, she faced every challenge with resilience, courage, and a determination that inspired all who knew her. She had a variety of careers throughout her life, including roles in accounts payable and sales, but through the stories she shared with her grandchildren, it was clear that her most beloved job was as a hairdresser, where she found true joy in helping others. It was this unwavering devotion to helping others that truly defined Sandra, especially in the way she cared for her parents in their later years, a role she embraced with endless love and compassion.

In addition to her professional roles, Sandra was a talented baker and artist. Whether she was decorating cakes for family celebrations or creating beautiful artwork, her creativity knew no bounds. She poured her heart into every cake, painting, and project, so that those around her were fortunate to experience the love and care she infused into her creations.

She is preceded in death by two of her children, Patrick Turner and Penny Turner, her parents, her ex-husband James Turner, and her sister Judy Nation. Sandra is survived by 2 sons: James “Scooter” Turner Jr. (Jennifer) and Anthony “Tony” Turner (Terri); her siblings Jimmy Williams, Herbie Williams, and Jeannie Johnson; and her dear friend and caretaker, Jane Schlager.

Sandra’s legacy lives on through her grandchildren, Ashley Lyonwood (Maddy), Whitley Luman (Trent), Colby Turner, Sydney Turner, Katie Turner, and Lola Turner. She will also be deeply missed by numerous extended family members and friends whose lives she touched with kindness and generosity.

In her free time, Sandra found joy in traveling, particularly to Hawaii, and in spending quality time with her grandchildren, whether it was taking them on special birthday outings, being their biggest cheerleader at events, or sharing in adventures both big and small. Her family will forever remember her for the love and laughter she brought into every room, the warmth she offered to all, and her enduring spirit of resilience.

A service in celebration of Sandra’s life will be held on Monday, January 20, 2025, at Cedar Creek Baptist Church, 1372 Lane Ave S, Jacksonville, Florida, where friends and family are invited to honor her memory and the legacy of love she leaves behind. The family will be receiving visitors from 12:30-1:00pm, with the ceremony to follow. Sandra’s family is grateful for the care and support from those who loved her throughout her life, especially Jane Schlager, who was not only her closest friend but also a steadfast companion during her final years. Sandra’s love will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

Aloha ʻoe, until we meet again.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Autoimmune Association in Sandra’s honor