Jean Turnmeyer is at peace with God on April 17, 2014, joining loving family and friends who have gone before her and in whose arms she has been welcomed to God’s grace. Loving wife of Major General George Turnmeyer, former Commander at Redstone Arsenal, Jean was his devoted partner for over 65 years of marriage. Born Jean Fahey in Dubuque, Iowa in 1927, Jean earned a college scholarship, a rare honor for a woman in those years. Jean traveled alone in 1948 on a cargo steamer across the Pacific to join her husband in the dangerous post-war Philippines, marking the first of their many world-wide adventures together. She was instrumental in his career, helping write material that became part of a Presidential speech to Congress and supporting military wives during tough times confronted by all military wives. By George’s side through thick and thin, she raised two loving children, Ann and Robert, who honor her as an incredible influence in their lives and a loving and devoted Mom. Jean was essential to assisting her husband in building Huntsville’s premier nursing home, Redstone Village, to ensure the design and features reflected the desires of military retirees and their spouses.
Jean is pre-deceased by her daughter, Ann Louise, her grandson, James Robert, and Jean’s sister, Ann LaJone.
She is survived by her husband, George, her son LTC Robert Turnmeyer of Virginia, grandson Edward and great-granddaughter, Zoe, both of Virginia, and sister, Mary Ellen of California.
Visitation will be Monday, April 21, 5-7pm at Good Shepherd Catholic Church and Tuesday, April 22, at 9am, prior to the 10am mass celebrating her life also at Good Shepherd Catholic Church. Jean will be placed at rest with her daughter Ann, at Maple Hill Cemetery following the mass. Everyone wishing to celebrate Jean’s incredible love and life are sincerely welcomed to join her family at all events.
