Buford Turnage

Buford “Ray” Turnage of Little Rock passed away April 14, 2020. He was born May 8, 1947, in Searcy to the late B.O. and Jimmie (Ray) Turnage. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years Janice (Craig) Turnage and two children, Stephanie (Jay) Southerland of Little Rock, Arkansas and Chris Turnage of Hot Springs, Arkansas, three grandchildren, Addison, Parker and Halle Southerland and a host of other relatives. Ray was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Betty Brown of Marblehead, Massachusetts and Pauline Roberson of Searcy, Arkansas, nephews Timothy Brown of Marblehead, Massachusetts and Larry Roberson of Searcy, Arkansas and in-laws Homer and Floriece Craig of Little Rock, Arkansas.

Ray graduated from Searcy High School, attended Ouachita Baptist University where he met his wife Janice and was a graduate of UAMS School of Pharmacy. He was a devoted member of Geyer Springs First Baptist Church for over 50 years where he served as a deacon, Chairman of the Deacons and on numerous other building, finance and search committees. His mission in life was to help and serve people and his career in Pharmacy allowed him to do this. He and Janice opened Market Place Pharmacy in 1980 and he continued to work and help people until his health no longer allowed. Throughout his pharmacy career, Ray touched the lives of so many people and his customers became dear friends and family. He was a true businessman and leader in the local pharmacy industry, having owned and operated six pharmacies throughout his career. He also served on many Boards including Arkansas Children’s Home Board, Ouachita Baptist University Board of Trustees, The Baptist Preparatory School Board, Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy and was a leader and Board member of the Pharmacy Association. Ray was also an active member and past President of the Little Rock Executives’ Association.

Ray’s greatest joy in life was his family. When he wasn’t at work, he could always be found at one of his children’s activities, probably volunteering in some capacity. This carried down to his grandchildren, the light of this life. If you saw Ray or talked to him for long, he probably told you a story or showed you a picture of one of his grandkids. He was their biggest fan and attended all of their sports, music and school activities.

A celebration of life service is pending due to the current environment. The family would like to thank the staff of Avenir Memory Care at Little Rock, First Choice Senior Care and special friend and caregiver, T.J. Geldon, Kindred Hospice and the many doctors, nurses, caregivers and friends who helped  care for Ray over the last several years.

Memorials may be made to: Geyer Springs First Baptist Church Missions Fund – P.O. Box 31510, Little Rock, AR 72260; Ouachita Baptist University-410 Ouachita Street, Arkadelphia, AR 71998; Alzheimer’s Association -10201 West Markham Street, Suite 100, Little Rock, AR 72205 or Arkansas Baptist Children’s Home – 10 Remington Drive, Little Rock, AR 72204.