Russell L. Turner Sr. of Loch Sheldrake passed away peacefully at home on July 27, 2026, with his family by his side. Son of the late Harry and Florence Turner, born on October 20, 1948, in Monticello, New York.  He leaves behind a legacy built on hard work, friends, family, and a lifetime love of farming.

He is survived by his daughter Ann Marie Turner in Loch Sheldrake; his sons Russell Turner Jr. wife, Lorie of Neversink; Chad Turner wife, Janice and his cherished granddaughters, Sophie and Chloe all residing in Saugerties. His sisters, Phyllis Fix; Virginia McCarthy and her husband Victor; his sisters-in-law Carol and Lillian Turner and Carol Hummel, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife Linda Hummel Turner and his brothers, Robert, Fredrick and Leland Turner; brother/sisters-in-law William Fix, Lester, Joanne and Raymond Hummel. His longtime companion Hulda Vernooy.

Russell dedicated his early years to working on the Turner Farm and other area farms. He began a new chapter in 1980 by becoming a Correctional Officer. During his distinguished 28-year career, he served at Eastern Correctional Facility & Sullivan Correctional Facility at the Sullivan Annex, where he combined his passion for agriculture with his profession.  Also worked hand in hand with his sons, fellow COs and blue-collar crew at Holiday Mountain as a ski lift operator.

Russell found great joy in his retirement. Barbecuing for many family and community events. His lifelong passion for antique tractors grew into an important part of his life when he helped establish the Neversink Roundout Antique Machinery Association alongside fellow enthusiasts and proudly served as a former president. He enjoyed traveling throughout the East Coast, attending antique tractor shows and visiting with friends and family. He could often be found restoring an old tractor, tinkering or rebuilding something in his garage.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Russell’s neighbors, Brock Curtis and Patrick & Kaitlyn Cronin, for their kindness, friendship, and willingness to help. Their generosity meant more than words can express.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Orange/Sullivan Hospice of New York in Russell’s memory.

Russell will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, his devotion to family and farming, his willingness to lend a helping hand, and the countless hours he spent preserving the history of antique tractors. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the friendships he treasured, and the many lives he touched.

Visitation was held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Colonial Memorial Funeral Home, 396 State Route 52, Woodbourne, NY from 4-7:00pm. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Friday, July 31, 2026, at 10:00am followed by interment at Fallsburg Cemetery.

Arrangements were under the care of Colonial Memorial Funeral Home. For further information please call 845-434-7363.