JoAnn Marie Turner's Obituary
JoAnn Marie Turner, 84, of Wichita, KS, formally of Elk County, KS., passed away on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at St. Francis Hospital in Wichita. JoAnn was born on November 23, 1941, in rural Elk Falls, the daughter of Lloyd and Jessie (Dutton) Ford.
Growing up on the family farm, JoAnn learned early how to work hard, have a strong faith in God, and have fun when you can. As a youngster, she was seen driving grain trucks when it was time to harvest, when her father became the Elk County Sheriff, she would also help run the switchboard and make sure meals were delivered to those in the Sheriff’s care.
She took a job as HR Representative for USD 259 and dedicated many years to that position. JoAnn always tried to make sure others were cared for first, and learned that being selfless was her best asset to her job and her family. After she retired from the school, she then sold real estate for many years.
JoAnn married Timothy I. Turner on June 14, 1980. They began their lives together on the dance floor. JoAnn and Timothy entered numerous dance competitions for Square Dancing and Country Dancing and ultimately became instructors for those willing to learn. When not dancing, JoAnn loved tending to her garden and growing flowers, with her favorite dogs by her side. She loved her family deeply and cherished their time together.
Including Tim, JoAnn is survived by:
Son: Glenn A. Fox of Wichita, KS
Four Grandchildren: Amanda Siler-Evans and husband Jared: Cody Rajtar and wife Maria: Casey Fox-Featherby and Jesse Featherby
Three Great Grandchildren: Michael, Aleah and Addison
One Great-Great Grandchild: Yazmin
JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter Pamela Featherby and siblings Leslie Ford and Evelyn Condon.
The family has requested a private funeral service. Memorials in her memory have been established to either the Humane Society or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and may be left with or mailed to the funeral home. Online condolence may be left at https://www.countrysidefh.com. Services are under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home 206 E. Washington, P.O. Box 1233, Howard, KS 67349
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