Suzzanne Ruell Turner

Suzzanne Ruell Turner, 77, of Hope Mills, NC, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, September 6, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Born on June 16, 1949, in Burlington, Vermont, Suzzanne was the daughter of the late Richard Ruell and Betty Rivers Ruell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Michael Ruell, and her sister, Donna Eisenman.

Suzzanne is survived by her husband of 58 years, Bernice Turner; her daughter, Michelle Leonard and husband Robert; her son, Bryan Turner and wife Stephanie; her daughter, Elizabeth Odum and husband Jason; six grandchildren, Sarah Lappin and husband Quinn, Anna Leonard, Haley Turner, Claire Leonard, Harrison Turner, and Drew Odum; six siblings, Richard Ruell, Jr., David Ruell and wife Lynn, Larry Ruell and wife Brenda, Walter Ruell, Jean Spence, and Robert Ruell; as well as several nieces and nephews and many other family members and friends.

Suzzanne had a generous heart and a strong love for volunteering, especially when it involved helping children. She served as a Girl Scout troop leader, volunteered as a reading tutor at Elizabeth Cashwell Elementary School, and worked with the Children’s Ministry at Vertical Church in Lumberton. Through these efforts, she devoted much of her time to encouraging, supporting, and enriching the lives of children in her community.

Her bright and joyful personality touched everyone she met. Suzzanne had a natural gift for caring for others and making people feel welcome. She brought warmth and laughter wherever she went and had a way of making those around her feel loved and appreciated.

Suzzanne also had a creative spirit. She enjoyed writing poetry, painting, and making crafts. She especially loved baking and cooking for family and friends and took great joy in preparing everyone’s favorite dishes whenever she had the opportunity.

Above all, Suzzanne was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Her kindness, generosity, laughter, and love for others will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to the Children’s Advocacy Centers of North Carolina. Donations may be given at https://cacnc.org/donate/.