W. Eric Turner Obituary, PEORIA, Ill. — W. Eric Turner, a longtime Peoria public servant and former At-Sizable City Council member, has lost his life at the age of 79. Turner is being remembered by former colleagues, friends and members of the community for his decades of dedication to the city and his commitment to public service.
Turner served on the Peoria City Council as an At-Large member for 24 years, a tenure that reflected his longstanding involvement in the city’s civic affairs. His service left a lasting impression on colleagues who worked alongside him and on those who later followed his path into public office.
Former colleague Bernice Gordon-Young remembered Turner for his kindness and warmth, describing his 24 years on the council as evidence of the dedication and commitment he brought to Peoria. Gordon-Young, who was elected to the council four years after Turner’s retirement, reported she was grateful for the path he paved and for the wisdom he shared.
Turner’s public service included work on issues involving public safety and the city’s police department. During his time in office, he supported efforts to use COPS grant funding to strengthen the Peoria Police Department, which was described by a former council colleague as woefully understaffed at the time. Former Congressman Ray LaHood also worked to help Peoria receive the federal funding.
His years in city government also included involvement in notable municipal decisions, including efforts surrounding a change in city management, growth strategies and annexations. Former political colleague and friend Bernice Gordon-Young recalled first meeting Turner while they were both campaigning for At-Large City Council seats in 1995.
Gordon-Young described Turner as personable, a gentleman and a dear friend. Reflecting on their years of public service together, she remembered the many campaign events, city issues and late nights that shaped their work on behalf of Peoria.
Turner’s legacy is also connected to his service to the country. In remembering him, Gordon-Young thanked Turner for his brave service to the nation and expressed that Peoria would miss him. Another tribute recalled Turner’s words, “Say what you mean and mean what you say,” reflecting a principle associated with his approach to public service.
As Peoria remembers a councilman who dedicated 24 years to serving the city, tributes have emphasized Turner’s character, wisdom, friendship and commitment to the neighborhood. His years of civic service remain an important part of his legacy, and condolences go to his family, friends, former colleagues and all those who knew and worked with him.
