Obituary of Carol Lombard Turner

In Celebration of the Life and Legacy of Carol Lombard Turner Carol Lombard Turner of Reisterstown, Maryland, went to be with the Lord on July 27, 2026, leaving behind a rich legacy of love, faith, strength, and unwavering dedication. Born on May 9, 1942, in Hopewell, Virginia, Carol was the cherished daughter of the late Luke Alexander and Mary Elizabeth Alexander (Reid). Delivered at home by respected midwife Ms. Lizzie Simon, she was the third of six children, growing up alongside her older brothers, Jerry and Joseph, and her younger siblings, Jackie, Gail, and Gary. During her early teenage years, Carol took on an instrumental role in caring for her younger brothers and sisters while their mother worked. It was during these formative years that her deep passion for nurturing others was born. Carol attended Carver Vocational School, where she trained as a licensed cosmetologist. Upon completing her education, she launched her career at Irene's Beauty Parlor on Edmondson Avenue in Baltimore under the mentorship of Mrs. Irene. Carol was renowned for her warm spirit and extraordinary talent—her cosmetology skills were truly beyond measure. Over the years, her kitchen became the central meeting place where family and friends gathered for a straightening, a wash-and-curl, a perm, or a haircut, paired with lively conversation and togetherness. Later in life, Carol channeled that same nurturing drive into opening and operating a child daycare service. For many years, she provided a safe, loving, and supportive environment for countless children and families before retiring in 2004. On July 23, 1961, Carol married the love of her life, Allen Linwood Turner, at St. Abraham Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, and service, becoming faithful members of Simmons Memorial Baptist Church, where they remained connected to the body of Christ. From their 44-year union came three cherished daughters: Sophia Loren, Tiffany Lafran, and Joharia Lennell. Carol and Allen made immeasurable sacrifices to ensure "the girls" had every opportunity to grow into productive, strong, loving, happy, self-sustaining, and spirit-filled individuals. In return, their daughters lovingly cared for their parents as they aged, each serving in her own way, with Joharia serving as the primary caregiver. In the early days on Woodington Road, Carol and Allen's home was known to everyone as a true sanctuary and a no-judgment zone. It was the ultimate meet-up spot—a safe place where anyone could come for shelter, a warm meal, comfort, or a good time. Carol took on the responsibility of many family members, providing refuge, safety, love, and support—she was truly a mother to all. When it came time to celebrate, Carol was always the center of attention and the star of the show. Her smile and laugh were infectious, her cooking outshone everyone else's, and her free spirit kept family and friends coming back again and again. Yet, it was her sharp tongue, wit, and no-nonsense attitude that drew people in the most—her raw authenticity and genuineness made everyone feel truly seen and valued in a way that no one would trade for anything. For Carol, surrounding herself with people was her way of working through pain. The depth of her pain was felt on July 28, 2005, when her beloved husband, Allen, passed away in Baltimore at the age of 67. Their enduring marriage served as a blueprint of true love, admiration, and devotion for family and friends alike. After Allen's passing, Carol moved to the Reistersview Senior Community, where she continued to touch lives. She nurtured new friendships, shared her love of cooking, and met her special friend, Mr. Henry Bell ("HB"). Henry's commitment and devotion brought new meaning and emotional joy to the final chapter of her life. When Carol wasn't blessing others with her honesty, wit, and winning smile, she enjoyed bingo, reading, crossword puzzles, journaling, listening to music, watching her favorite TV shows, and keeping an immaculate home. She was an avid word game enthusiast and a master Scrabble player. Though her health declined in her later years, Carol never allowed illness to define her or interrupt a family celebration. She was always available for a serious conversation when needed, listening intently and imparting wisdom to all who sought her guidance. Above all her accomplishments, Carol was most proud of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—a gift she once believed she wouldn't live long enough to see. She was the epitome of a proud mother, loving grandmother, dedicated sister, caring aunt, and sincere friend. Carol was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Allen Linwood Turner. Her mother, Mary Elizabeth Reid. Her father, Luke Alexander. Her brothers, Jerry Alexander and Joseph Alexander. She leaves to carry on her legacy: Her Beloved Daughters: Sophia Loren Gibbs (Carlton), Tiffany Lafran Peterson, and Joharia Lenelle Howard (Clarence) Her Treasured Grandchildren: Shanelle Elizabeth Barksdale-Fore (Ricky), Phillip Allen Scott, Akim Malik Warren, Lyric Aaliyah Peterson, and Isaiah Maurice Scott, Sr. Her Adored Great-Grandchildren: Isaiah Maurice Scott, Jr. and Blaise Myzier Warren Her Dear Siblings: Sisters Jacqueline Delores Hugee and Gail Lafran Boone, and brother Gary Reid, Jr. Her Special Connections: Special friend Mr. Henry Bell ("HB"); bonus daughter Ms. Bonnie Hodge; lifelong friends of over 60 years, Mrs. Valerie Fraling, Ms. Yvonne Ellis, and Ms. Rebecca Poindexter; devoted group of companions at Reistersview; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. Carol's sharp mind, warm laughter, strong presence, and unconditional love have left an indelible mark that will never be forgotten. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.