Joel Alan Turner

Joel Alan Turner of Biloxi, MS, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2026, surrounded by family.

Joel was born November 21, 1951 in the mountains of Kerala, India, to Harold and Lucille Turner, the youngest of three boys—after his older brothers, Sam and Phil—and later joined by his younger sister, Carol. From an early age, he developed a profound love of music that would shape the course of his life. He became an avid collector of blues and rock & roll, and a lifelong saxophonist who played with and inspired a wide circle of friends over the years.

A well-traveled man of many talents, Joel had sawdust in his blood, possessing a natural gift for fine woodworking and carpentry, true to the Turner name. Yet his greatest impact was felt through his work in healthcare. He served diligently for 13 years as an ER nurse, mostly working overnight shifts, before going on to teach, and later lead as an administrator and director, investing in both patients and the next generation of caregivers.

He married the love of his life, Eris, and together they built—and rebuilt—a home that became the heart of their family for decades. Through fire and flood and the many trials of life, their devotion to one another never wavered. They shared a deep love for the ocean, where Joel was most at peace—out on the boat with Eris, watching the sun set over the Gulf. These quiet moments together became some of their most cherished.

To this day, they stand as the gold standard in the family for love and perseverance.

Known affectionately as “Papa Joe,” he was the beloved patriarch of the family.

He is survived by his wife, Eris; his brother Sam and sister Carol; his five children, Mike (wife Ryanne), Lalita, Ami, Amanda, and Missy (husband Jonathan); his twelve grandchildren, Jackson, Ian, Miriam, Amara, Braylon, Bryson, Blake, Avery, Dawson, Ethan, Kayleigh (husband Zachary), and Jada; and three great-grandchildren, Elijah, Esten, and Randy. He had a huge extended family as well with many considering him a father figure throughout life. Last but not least, his beloved dog Willie who was always by his side.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Private services will be held. 

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Joel Alan Turner.