James A. Turner

James A. Turner, 88, of Smithfield, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully and surrounded by the love of his family on Saturday, January 18, 2025.

He was the beloved husband of the late Rose M. Turner, to whom he was happily married for 64 years. Born in Woonsocket, he was the son of the late Arthur and Emma (Greenan) Turner.

Jim was a machinist at Industrial Tool and BIF Industries for most of his working life. He loved to recount his earlier experiences working at historic Rhode Island gems including Lem’s Catering, Gladdings, and Ostby & Barton. Prior to retirement, he was a driver for Paramount Restaurant Supply and the John E. Fogarty Center.

Jim was a life-long parishioner at St. Michael’s Church, served as a church volunteer for many years, and was a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus. An avid baseball fan, he coached several teams and was also a Smithfield Girls Softball League coach for over 25 years. Jim’s other hobbies included golf, home improvement projects, model trains, drums, keyboard, card games, and cribbage. He will be remembered as a hard-working family man, with an easy smile, twinkle in his eyes, true zest for life, and a willingness to help anyone.

He is survived by his daughter, Dr. Diane M. Turner-Bowker and her husband, Robert E. Bowker IV, who was a true son to him. The role Jim loved most of all was as proud Papa to his grandchildren, Maia and Robert. He enjoyed being part of their everyday lives, attending school events, concerts, and softball, baseball and basketball games as their greatest fan, cheering them on from the sidelines and coaching them behind the scenes. He was the best big brother to Thomas Turner and the late John Turner, and is survived by several others including beloved godchildren, nieces and nephews, family members and friends. Jim was especially close with niece Cathy, and nephews Jimmy, David and Paul, and loved them as his own.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025 from 8:15-9:15 am in the Robbins Funeral Home, 2251 Mineral Spring Ave., North Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am in St. Michael’s Church, 80 Farnum Pike, Smithfield. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to St. Michael’s Church, 80 Farnum Pike, Smithfield, RI 02917 or the John E. Fogarty Center, 310 Maple Ave., Suite 102, Barrington, RI 02806.