James Frederick Turner

James Frederick Turner, 77, of St. Petersburg, Florida passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026. He was born in Columbia, South Carolina and later moved to Gulfport, Florida in his early teenage years. He attended Boca Ciega High School, where he was an accomplished football player, playing both Tight End and Defensive End. In 2009, he was inducted into the Boca Ciega athletic hall of fame. Jim’s life was defined by his love and loyalty to family and friends, service and an unforgettable gift for storytelling.

Jim was a proud veteran of the United States Army, where he served as a military police officer. His sense of patriotism and commitment was carried throughout his entire life.

After his military service, he worked at the St. Petersburg Beach Aquatarium as a dolphin trainer and diver. He subsequently served his community as a lieutenant with Saint Petersburg Fire Rescue for 35 years. He was known for his calm leadership, strong work ethic and was named firefighter of the year in 1976.

Outside of work, Jim was an avid fisherman and loved sharing time on the water with family and friends. He was a licensed charter fishing captain on his days away from the fire department.

Storytelling was truly one of his greatest gifts. He had a way of bringing memories back to life, and his stories will be remembered for years to come.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Rebecca (Gilbert) Turner. He is survived by his brother Rock (Norma) , brother Michael, and brother Mark (Linda); niece Kayla; nephew Kyle (Bailey) and great-nephew Rhyland; nephew Taylor (Gabby) and great-nephews Jackson and Mason; nephew Matthew (Amber); nephew Adam (Tia) and nephew Rick (Erin).

In lieu of flowers, our family kindly requests that donations be made to the Johns Hopkins All Children’s Bone Marrow Transplant Program. Please include ‘In honor of James "Jim" Frederick Turner’ with your gift."