Turner Fellowship Hall Dedication

Published February 9, 2022 by SMBC

Turner Fellowship Hall was dedicated on January 30, 2022, in honor of Dr. Bill Turner, pastor from 1985 to 2002.

In the pulpit, Bill was one of the most gifted and talented preachers of his time. His keen intellect, penchant for serious study, personal drive for excellence and love of God and the Scripture guided the content of his sermons. His remarkable gifts with words and storytelling combined with a genuine sense of humor and a rich, resonant baritone voice provided us with powerful and moving sermons for over seventeen years.

Beyond the pulpit, he faithfully pastored this congregation with a servant's heart and compassionate caregiving and led us through challenging and difficult times—an AIDS epidemic and a denominational split among many others—always with dignity and grace.

Beloved by his congregation, admired by his peers, and highly respected in our community, Bill was always a great ambassador for South Main Baptist Church. Throughout his ministry, ever sensitive to others with differing opinions, cultures, or even religious beliefs, he walked humbly knowing that God was big enough for all of us.