Leonard Wesley Turner was born on June 14, 1959, passing into the Everlasting Arms of Jesus on the morning of April 12th, 2024. He was surrounded by family and his beloved Yorkshire Terriers at his home, the Doudney-Vaughn House, in Sanford, Florida.
He is survived by his Wife, Jacqueline; Daughter, Tiffany Beaton (George), Step-daughters Gina Trenholm (Donald), and Jennifer Vestal (Devon Miller); Grandchildren Zabriah Miller, Devon J. Miller, Taylor Beaton, and Teagan Beaton; Mother, Betty J. Turner; Brothers, Lester and Jesse; Mother-in-law, Syble Earnest; along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends-like-family.
Leonard was born in Winter Park, Florida, the third son of Walter (deceased) and Betty Turner. He grew up in Longwood (FL).
As a boy, he was fascinated with firemen and shiny red fire trucks, deciding at a young age that was exactly what he wanted to be when he “grew up.” He began his career as a volunteer at Longwood Fire Department at 16 years of age. He fulfilled his dream of becoming a professional firefighter, serving as a Firefighter, Engineer, Lieutenant, Captain, and ultimately, a Battalion Chief. He retired after 41 years of faithful service to the citizens of Longwood and Seminole County. Notably, when he retired from service in May 2016, he held the honor of being the longest serving employee for the City of Longwood. Like many professional firefighters, he spent time moonlighting in other professions. He particularly enjoyed his time working as a stringer, filming Spot News for (Bob) Cross News Service.
Leonard and Jacqueline were married in 1996 at Sanford Church of God. While honeymooning in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, he developed a tremendous love for the Smoky Mountains, returning there many times over the years. His final trip was in January, 2024, fulfilling his desire to share his love of Tennessee with his oldest grandchildren. He had looked forward to the day when he could take his youngest granddaughters there.
Though unable to attend in-person often due to health limitations, he was a faithful member of City Church in Sanford. He loved worship, rarely missing the Sunday morning on-line service.
He was a generous provider, and protector who loved Jesus, the Word of God, his family, and his “fur-babies.”
Len spent the final years of his life devoted to Christ, knowing that one day, he would see Him Face-to face, He longed to hear Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Though much sooner than we hoped, he has entered into the Place of rest prepared for us by Jesus Christ.
