Mary Jewel Turner

Mary Jewel Turner, 84, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2025, in Maricopa, Arizona. Born and raised in Meridian, Mississippi, she settled in Des Moines, Iowa, where she spent the majority of her life, raising her family and leaving an indelible mark on everyone she met.

Jewel was more than a mother, she was a pillar of strength, wisdom, and love for generations. She raised her children with unwavering devotion and extended that same love and guidance to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether through a listening ear, heartfelt advice, or the simple warmth of her presence, she made sure that each of them felt valued and deeply loved. Her presence was felt, her words carried weight, and her love, though firm, was genuine. Her home was a place of comfort, laughter, and faith.

Jewel dedicated over 30 years to serving others as a Sterile Processing Technician at Broadlawns Medical Center. After decades of devoted service and ensuring essential medical instruments and equipment were available to staff for patient care she retired.

Jewel was a faithful follower of Christ and attended Des Moines Seventh-day Adventist Church. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, she found strength and purpose in God’s Word.

Jewel was preceded in death by her husband, Robert D. Turner Sr; her parents, T.B. and Mattie Hannah Benson; her siblings, Amie Cole, Mattie Ruth Lewis, Ernestine Tyson, T.M Benson, W.A Benson, Will Benson, John Benson, Ernest Benson, and Dave Benson; her daughter Beverly Turner; her son, Darrett Boone; and her twin grandsons Sean and Javon Benson.

She is survived by her children: Sharon Carroll, Karen Benson, Virgil Benson (wife Johnetta), and Sean Benson. She was also a proud grandmother of 13 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy.

The Family would like to express our deepest gratitude for the love, prayers, and support shown during this time. Your kindness means the world to us as we honor Jewel’s life and the love she shared with so many.