James Troy Turner, 73, of Sterling, passed away, Tuesday, November 15, 2022. He was born July 14, 1949 in Bisbee, AZ to John Claude and Mary Lou Turner.

After his parents divorced, Mary Lou and the children moved to the Rocky Ford and La Junta area. Troy enjoyed many childhood adventures, especially camping and fishing in Oklahoma with his dad. His mom and stepdad, Donald William Miller, moved the family to Lindon, Colorado, and his stepfather took a job with Ben Gay Ranches.

Troy attended Woodlin School and graduated in 1969. He then joined the U.S. Navy and served on the USS Canisteo. After the Navy, he went to Denver Tech Diesel Mechanic School. He worked as a tractor mechanic for Wickham's, and had various other jobs, eventually retiring due to ill health.

Troy loved fishing, traveling and was an avid Denver Broncos fan. He enjoyed writing poetry and had two books published.

Troy was preceded in death by his father, John Claude Turner, Sr.; stepbrother, Michael Miller; mother and stepfather, Mary Lou and Donald Miller; sister, Latricia (Pat) Perry; and his beloved dog, Pedro.

He is survived by his brother, John (Trish) Turner Jr.; half-sister, Cathie (Rick) Gantenbien; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.

Troy's family chose cremation, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.