Michael "Skip" Turner

Michael McCord "Skip" Turner, age 64, of Benton, died at home on Monday, February 1, 2016. He was born July 28, 1951 in Little Rock, Pulaski County, Arkansas to Mabel Beatrice (McCord) and LeRoy Hiram Turner. On December 29, 1990 in Benton, Arkansas, he married Edith Alissa Phillips. His parents and sister, Deanne Ball preceded him in death. Michael was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, enlisting on April 29, 1971. Michael served with the 3723 Squadron, Flight 674. He was awarded the Air Medal and the National Defense Service Medal, before receiving an honorable discharge. He attended Henderson State University and graduated from UALR with a degree in chemistry. Michael worked for Alcoa, Vulcan, Reynolds in Research and Development, and Rineco Chemical Industry. Later he opened his own business, Michael's Fine Cigars, in Benton and Hot Springs. Survivors include his wife, Alissa Turner; his sons, Jay (Amy) Turner of Benton and Ryan Turner of Little Rock; brother, Roy Allen Turner and three grandchildren, Dawson Michael, Hayley Renee, and Clare Turner. Many thanks to his caregivers, Karen Gately, Janet Winsett, and Saline Memorial Hospice. Visitation will be 1 p.m. Thursday, February 4, 2016, with the funeral following at 2 p.m., at Ashby Funeral Home, with Rev. David Jones officiating. Interment will be at Smith Rosemont Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Beau Satori, Barry Lile, Jonathan Coffman, Eric Jones, Jeff Westbrook and Dickie Kentner. Memorials may be made to Saline Memorial Hospice, the Saline County Library, or the charity of your choice. On-line guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.