Donald H. Turner, Jr.

Donald H. Turner, Jr., a beloved pillar of the Milton community, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on November 30, 2024 at the McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester, Vermont, after a short but courageous battle with glioblastoma. Born on July 19, 1964, in Burlington, Vermont, Don exemplified a life dedicated to service, family, and community engagement.

 A respected figure in the political landscape of Milton, Don served as a State Representative for the Chittenden-9 district from 2006 until 2012 and subsequently for the Chittenden-10 district from 2013 to 2019. His commitment to public service was further highlighted by his role as the Minority Leader of the Vermont House of Representatives from 2011 to 2019. In addition to these accomplishments, he was actively involved in local governance as the Town Manager of Milton and as a member of the Board of Civil Authority. Don was a real estate broker for Century 21. His passion for community safety was demonstrated through his certification as a fire instructor, membership in the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the Milton Firefighters Association, Rescue Chief , Forest Fire Warden, and a 14 year tenure as the Milton Fire Chief, a path he started at the age of 16. In 2017, he took on the role of Town Manager, contributing significantly to the betterment of Milton and its residents.

His family owned and operated local businesses, including the Milton Bowling Center and Don Turner and Sons Construction. Don was not only a stalwart in his career but also a devoted family man. He cherished instilling in his children the values he learned from his own upbringing in a close-knit family, prioritizing weekly family time, vacations and holiday events. He particularly enjoyed playing and bonding with his grandchildren. 

He is survived by his loving wife of forty years, Gail, his three daughters, Emily Turner-Frye and her husband Ben, Hillary Joyal and her husband Dana, and Erin Turner, his three grandchildren, Thea, Lydia, and Thatcher, his parents, Donald H. Turner, Sr. and Nancy Turner. He leaves behind his siblings, Lisa Lapete and her husband Chris, and James Turner and his wife Erin, along with his nieces and nephews: Chris, Sam, Nikki, Haley, Owen, and Quinn. He is also survived by a large extended family. 

 Don was predeceased by his sister, Tammy Juaire, his mother-in-law and father-in-law, his aunt Betty Cross and his grandparents.

 The impact Don had on the Milton community and his family will be felt for years to come. He will be remembered not only for his extensive public service but also for his unwavering love, kindness, and commitment to those around him. His memory will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

 A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday December 7th beginning at 2pm at the Donald H. Turner, Jr Public Works Building, 160 Public Works Way, Milton. 

 In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the McClure Miller Respite House in his honor. Don’s family would like to thank the care team of the McClure Miller Respite House for their wonderful care. A special thank you to Sarah, Mara, Debbie, Linsey and Robin.