Gwendolyn Annette Lovelace Turner, 72, passed away Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at her home in Shelby.

Born in Cleveland County on January 29, 1951, she was the daughter of the late James Dazile Lovelace and Josie Charline Thrift Lovelace. In addition to her parents, Gwen is preceded in death by her husband, Gary Stephen Turner, and brother, Jimmy Lovelace.

Gwen is survived by her three children: Karin Turner Cook and husband Clinton; Mark Stephen Turner and wife Miranda; and Allison Turner Durbin and husband Kenneth. Also left to cherish her memory are her sister, Sue Lovelace McLamb Rippy, and her grandchildren, Madison Bower Anthony (Isaac), Carleigh Turner, Turner Cook, Ford Turner, August Cook, Zeric Durbin, Cody Durbin, and Dylan Turner, as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

Gwen received her nursing degree from Gardner-Webb University and was tirelessly devoted to her profession for 50 years. She was most recently employed as a registered nurse on the fourth floor of Atrium Health Cleveland in Shelby. Her dedication to her patients was recognized by hospital administrators, as she often went the extra mile with patients and co-workers alike.

Gwen's love and devotion to family, quick humor, and selfless nature will always be remembered.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at Bethel Baptist Church, with Dr. Timothy Sims officiating and honors provided by the Atrium Health Nurses Honor Guard. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the church sanctuary. Burial will follow the service at Sunset Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Bethel Baptist Church Hospitality Committee, 606 South Dekalb St., Shelby, NC 28150.

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family.