Joan Turner Halvorsen's Obituary
Joan Frances Lombardi Turner Halvorsen, 92, passed away on August 3, 2025, in Lady Lake, Florida. She was born on November 11, 1932 and lived a life marked by compassion, community involvement, and a deep love for her family and faith. Joan was well known in her community for her generosity and kind hearted nature and she was always extending a helping hand to those in need. Her commitment to her faith was evident in her active participation in church activities, including singing in the the choir at Westside Baptist Church, Lake Region Christian Fellowship, and Grace Tabernacle Church.
A passionate fan of the Florida Gators, Joan never missed an opportunity to show her support in vibrant orange and blue. Another favorite team of hers was the Orlando Magic. Her love for animals was profound, and she was always ready to care for or aid an animal in distress. Joan's career was as nurturing as her personality; she owned a day care center in Gainesville, assisted at Beverly Shores Elementary as a kindergarten helper, and later worked with Dr. Francine Gelfand, a psychiatrist in Leesburg. Her educational journey began at Leesburg High School, which laid the foundation for her lifelong dedication to children and education.
Her personal life was rich with the joy of family. Joan is survived by her sister, Charlotte Lombardi Boyd; her children, James Jerry Turner Jr. (Deborah) and Elsa Turner Robinson; and her six grandchildren, Christine( Danny Stallings), James Jerry Turner III, Lindsay(RJ Dowdy). Troy(Kelly Turner), Ashley, and William Mack Robinson, along with eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Patsy and Elsa Lombardi, and her brother, Richard Lombardi. Joan's hobbies included drawing, crocheting, cross-stitching, and singing. She cherished her high school days playing basketball, cheerleading, and water skiing, and she maintained an active lifestyle throughout her life. A memorial service to celebrate Joan's life will be held at 3:00PM on Saturday, August 16, at Frontier Church, 2508 Westside Drive, Leesburg, Florida.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joan's memory can be made to the Tim Tebow Foundation, an organization that reflects her spirit of kindness and charity. Joan's legacy will live on through her loving family, her contributions to her community, and the many lives she touched with her warmth and generosity.
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