Columbus, OH — RL Turner, 85, of Shelbyville, Ky., died July 5, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Born March 6, 1941, in Jackson, Ky., Mr. Turner was the son of the late John and Geneva. For 50 years, Mr. Turner and his wife, Judy, worked side by side breeding and raising Standardbred racehorses. Together they built successful careers and a shared passion for the Standardbred horse industry.
Throughout his career, Mr. Turner earned the respect of many for his knowledge, leadership, and tireless work ethic. He began as a foaling man at Hanover Shoe Farm in Pennsylvania before becoming farm manager for Lana Lobell Farm in both Pennsylvania and New York. He later served as farm manager at Walnut Hall Ltd. in Lexington, Ky.
Mr. Turner is survived by his wife, Judy; sons, Randy (Tanya), John and Patrick (Jenn); nine grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; sisters, Lela, Phyllis, Paula and Betty; and a niece and several nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Brie; and nephew, Jason.