Thomas 'T.J.' Samuel Turner III

Thomas “T.J.” Samuel Turner III, 35, of Dayton, passed away Monday evening, March 10, 2014 at the Hospice of Dayton.

He was born Oct. 1, 1978 in Dayton, the son of Thomas Turner II and Velma Cumberland, both of Hillsboro.

“T.J.” is considered by many to be the best all-around athlete from the Highland County area. A 1997 graduate of Hillsboro High School, he led Hillsboro to a 37-3 regular-season record during his four years as a football starter. Playing for the Indians, he was named first-team All-Ohio, All-Region, All-District and All-League as a senior in 1996. He was also an exceptional basketball player and helped lead the Indians basketball team to a regional championship game his senior year. He averaged 18 points and 10 rebounds per game playing basketball for the Indians. He lettered four years in college football at Michigan State and was an All-Big Ten Conference Honorable Mention his junior year. He was eventually drafted by and played for the New England Patriots.  

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his wife, Bethany (Maxwell) Turner; five children, Zeeondre Turner, Zee Jay Turner, Zaylee Maxwell and Zander Gibson, all of Seaman, and Elece Turner of Michigan; two sisters, Takasha Turner of Dayton and Jenifer Blair of Columbus; a special and loving friend, Deanna Burns of Washington Court House; as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Saturday, March 15, 2014 at the Hillsboro High School Gymnasium. Pastor Charles Rickman Jr. will officiate. Burial will follow in the Hillsboro Cemetery. Visitation will be from noon until the time of the service at 3 p.m. on Saturday at the gymnasium.

The Turner & Son Funeral Home in Hillsboro is serving the family.

To leave online condolences, please visit www.turnerfuneralhomes.cc.