John Harold Turbeville

John Harold Turbeville, age 90, was born on March 16, 1926 at home in Turbeville, South Carolina, the son of the late Bernice Turbeville Lyons and John J. Turbeville. He died in Sumter, South Carolina on October 31, 2016. Until he was twelve years old he lived in Turbeville, where he was known as Harold to family and friends. In 1938 he moved to Lakeland, Florida with his mother and sister, Bernice (deceased). When he turned 17 years old he enlisted in the U.S Navy and served from October 1943 to May 1946. He received training as a quartermaster which in the U.S is a bridge rating having to do with navigation and signaling. Eventually he was posted to Dutch Harbor in the Aleutian Islands, Alaska, and joined the U.S.S. Buckthorn on patrol in the Pacific. He ended his Navy service as a Seaman First Class. After graduating with a B.A. degree from George Washington University (Washington, D.C.), he had a 37-year career in ocean shipping in New York City, first working as the Marine Division Manager for Chilean Nitrate Sales Corporation (1949 to 1968), then as Assistant Treasurer/Secretary for Skaarup Chartering Company (1969-1986). While working and living in the greater New York City area Harold enjoyed going to Broadway musicals and plays, opera, ballet and visiting the many fine arts museums. From 1972 until his move to Sumter in April 2015 he lived in New Rochelle, New York, as he said, "only 45 minutes from Broadway." He loved good conversation, the art of letter writing, fine clothes, and Southern home cooking. Most of all, he was a loving son, good brother and a long-time friend to many. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, November 5, 2016 at Pine Grove United Methodist Church in Turbeville with burial in the church cemetery, directed by Floyd Funeral Home. There will be a reception of friends immediately following the graveside service at the church. In lieu of flowers it is suggested to make a contribution to The Pine Grove United Methodist Church in Turbeville, S.C. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of John Harold Turbeville please visit our Sympathy Store. Cemetery Details Pine Grove United Methodist Church Cemetery Main Street Turbeville, SC 29162