State Sen. Johnnie Turner's accidental death has left Kentucky political leaders in grief. The 76-year-old was riding a lawn mower when he fell into an empty swimming pool on September 15. He passed away on October 22, while trying to recover from injuries from the accident.
Turner was initially transported to Harlan ARH Hospital and subsequently airlifted to the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville. Notable politicians and organizations have come forward to share their sorrow after hearing about Johnnie's passing.
In a heartwarming message, Senator Phillip Wheeler, a member of the Kentucky State Senate took to his X account to break the news of Johnnie Turner's passing. He wrote:
"I had known of Johnnie Turner most of my legal career but really got to know Johnnie Turner the man over my last four years of serving with him in the Senate. His friendship is something that I will treasure the rest of my life."
Senate President Robert Stivers on behalf of the Senate Majority Caucus, posted a statement on X. The post title read:
"We are devastated to say we lost our dear friend, Johnnie Turner, Tuesday evening."
Governor of Kentucky, Andy Beshear also shared a note on his X account to share how saddened he and his wife were after hearing about Johhnie Turner's passing. He wrote:
"Britainy and I are saddened by the news of Sen. Johnnie Turner’s passing. We send our condolences and prayers to his family and friends during this difficult time."
Who was Johnnie Turner?
Johnnie Turner was a prominent Republican senator and attorney from eastern Kentucky. Born on Christmas Eve in 1947, he grew up in a large family in Harlan County. He attended the Red Bird Mission School and worked hard to finance his education. After serving in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1969, he met and married Maritza, his wife with whom he spent over 50 years.
Turner graduated from the University of Kentucky College of Law in 1977 and began practicing law shortly after. He earned a reputation as a “legal legend” by representing many coal miners and injured workers throughout his career. He first entered politics as a member of the Kentucky House of Representatives from 1999 to 2002, where he focused on improving infrastructure and reforming workers’ laws.
In 2020, Turner was elected to the Kentucky State Senate, representing the 29th District. He became known for his advocacy on public education and justice issues, particularly for the underprivileged.
In May 2024, Turner won his party’s primary for reelection and was set to run without any challengers because his independent opponent, David Suhr, had dropped out.
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However, after Turner’s passing, his name will still be on the ballot, but any votes for him won’t count. If no write-in candidate steps up by the deadline, a special election will be held to fill his seat.
Johnnie Turner was much more than a senator, he was a devoted family man, proud father of three, and a loving grandfather. He left a lasting impact on his community and will be deeply missed by those who knew him.
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