It is with a heavy heart that we announce the peaceful passing of Barbara Ann Shelton Turner (Bobbie); 87, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, formerly of Denmark, South Carolina, on Thursday, 3 August, 2023. She leaves behind a profound legacy of wisdom, love, and dedication that will forever be cherished by her family, friends, colleagues, and former students.

Born on July 9, 1936, in McDuffie County, Georgia, to Royal Alvie Shelton and Mabel Shelton Dean, and, after the death of her birth father at a young age, was raised by her stepfather Harold Dean. Barbara lived a life defined by her unwavering compassion and boundless generosity. She was a devoted daughter and friend, known for her kindness and her ability to light up a room with her words and charming sense of humor.

Bobbie, as many called her, graduated from Warrenton High School in 1954, completed her Bachelors of Science in Education at the Georgia State College for Women in 1958, and earned her master’s in education with a major in Library Science at the University of Georgia in 1970 as a faithful Bull Dog! She would never miss watching her Bulldog football games on television.

As an educator, Bobbie dedicated herself to nurturing the minds and hearts of countless individuals. Throughout her career, she served as a teacher and librarian, fostering a love for books and learning that continue to inspire generations. Her library was a haven of knowledge and imagination, where she kindled the spark of curiosity in young and old alike. She made sure the library was always a safe gathering place for children and young adults to have a peaceful reading and studying environment.

In the classroom, Mrs. Turner was a true mentor, instilling in her students a thirst for knowledge, critical thinking, and empathy. Her dedication extended far beyond textbooks, as she believed in nurturing well-rounded individuals who could contribute positively to society. She knew her hands would help shape young minds into successful adults. She took great pride in being an educator for many years. Her impact on her students was immeasurable, and her memory will forever reside in the lessons she taught.

Beyond her professional achievements, Bobbie married Jack Turner in 1968. Together they welcomed their daughter, Susan, born in 1971. Bobbie enjoyed monthly bridge night with the 5 other couples. She was a member of the Perian Literary Club and a Member of the Denmark Methodist Church where she contributed much time to the Sanctuary Christmas Tree by starting and making the Chrismon ornaments that are still used today. 

In 2006, the nickname Bobbie was replaced with Nana when she moved to Virginia to be with her daughter and two grandchildren. She gained a “northern” daughter, Susan Koba (family friend), who has been there for every milestone. Nana took care of Shelby and Jeffrey and made sure they got to school and home safely. In the mornings, she would take Jeffrey to Chick-Fil-A for cinnamon buns, and there were countless afternoons of grabbing Dairy Queen with her grandchildren. These are memories they will forever cherish - how to make an afternoon of fun.

She is survived by her daughter, Susan V. Swisher, her grandchildren Shelby M. Swisher and Jeffrey D. Swisher, great- grand cat, Dexter, Virginia Beach, VA, and her cousin Debbie Webb (Randy), Atlanta GA.