Eulogy for Brent by Jannell Turner
Our family wishes to express our deep appreciation for the outpouring of support and empathy for our great loss. Your thoughts and prayers have given us great solace during this tremendously difficult time.
Brent was a truly exceptional human being blessed with charm, wit and intelligence. Brent could converse at length about an amazing array of topics including music, art, culture, literature, economics, politics and basket ball. As with everyone he touched, I was enamored by his penetrating curiosity and magnificent personality.
Brent was more than a great brother to me. He was a loving, supportive, devoted friend… he was my best friend. He constantly expressed his love and appreciation for me. He protected me, guided me, advised me and encouraged me throughout my life. He shaped who I am today.
I remember when I was in first grade, and Brent was in sixth grade, we rode the school bus to Germantown together. Once when I did not have a seat, he stomped down the aisle and told some kid, “Hey, that’s my sister’s seat, move on out.” From then on, I proudly announced I was Brent Turner’s little sister.
One of Brent’s gifts was his sense of humor. I’ll never forget the hilarious uproar when he and John Monoghan ordered burritos at Panchos restaurant while wearing 4 foot wide sombrero hats.
Equally as important as making others laugh, Brent savored the humor in things others said and made people feel good about themselves. I felt so happy and important when Brent laughed heartily at my sarcastic comments.
In high school Brent and I developed a camaraderie that continued to grow through the rest of my life. He really understood me and made me feel loved and appreciated. Even now I can hear Brent tell me with his authoritative voice “I’m your #1 fan.”
I am grateful for the many wonderful times we spent in New York where I moved after college mainly because he was there. Brent took me all over Manhattan, showed me the places to go, and told me where not to go. We went to music, shows, art galleries, and parties together. We had long brunches on Sunday with friends. Brent usually was accompanied by a girl or a group of friends and he made brunch feel like a gathering.
It was through one of Brent’s friends that I found out about a job in graphic design at a record label. I began working there and eventually become an art director. This was a pivotal point in my career and I owe the experience to a connection through Brent.
Brent was a sounding board for my ideas and goals. Our similar interests in art and music fueled and inspired me. Also, important to me in my 20’s, Brent offered advice about men and provided consolation when relationships were rocky. He supported me, lent a shoulder and helped me grow.
I know that Brent will be with me forever. I know that he’ll guide me, protect me, and send blessings to my family. He’s my personal Guardian Angel. Also, in perfect Brent fashion, I hope he’ll toss funny messages along the way.
Thank you, Brent, for affecting my life in such a profoundly positive way. I am honored and grateful to have experienced this world with someone as truly remarkable, beautiful and unique as you.