Mark Turkett Obituary

I heard about the unfortunate death of Anthony "Tony" Turkett (nickname in HS "Turkey") not long ago but I really DO remember him from a REAL LONG time ago when we were on the wrestling team at Summerville HS for one year before I moved to Florence and later lost touch with him and others. He was a nice guy to be around and I understood before he passed he tried hard to understand the issues involved in the untimely demise of his brother Michael Turkett back in the 1970s (but which I knew few details on). While it's been a LONG time I remember Anthony as a good wrestler and football player who I didn't know later went on to play both at The Citadel. While I barely knew him that one year over FIFTY years ago, I am sorry he passed on. Maybe NOW he knows the mystery of the untimely demise much earlier of his brother Michael, something I am mystified about myself. RIP both.

I had the good fortune and distinct pleasure to have coached defensive guard Tony Turkett on our excellent Citadel defenses in 1978-79. On October 28, 1978, we upset the then undefeated U. of Delaware team at Johnson Hagood Stadium. Tony's passion and competitiveness were some of his greatest strengths. When he sacked the Delaware QB Jeff Komlo whom I had recruited at Maryland, who had turned us down for Delaware, he told QB Komlo as they were unpiling that 'Coach Park says 'Hello.' How I loved Tony! What passion, achievement and a Ph.D. to boot. May God rest Tony's soul as we know he is in Heaven. John 3:16. Coach loves you, Tony.

Wasn´t aware of Tony´s unfortunate passing. A long time ago I was on the Summerville HS wrestling team with him and his brother Mike. Both were terrific athletes and people who I still remember from over fifty years ago.o

Tony Turkett was a pleasure to coach in 1978-79 as a defensive guard at The Citadel. He was highly motivated, most enthusiastic, and always ready to play. I will never forget his great play in sacking the U. Of Delaware QB Jeff Komlo when we upset their undefeated team in 1979. Tony was a man of passion and energy whose picture still graces my office wall. He was an accomplished student earning his Ph.D. Many had great love for Tony, myself included. May God rest his soul. Coach Thom Park

I roomed with Tony my freshman year, loved the guy. Loved watching him play football. So glad he knew Jesus. Frank Portlock

To the Turkett family, my sincere condolences. I was a classmate of Tony's and I played football with at The Citadel. Tony's love of life and his energy got me through many practices and tough situations at school. My heart is warmed to know my brother in Christ will be waiting for me at the end of my story.

Tony's passing comes as a great shock, considering this past weekend many members of The Citadel football teams that Tony played on were all gathering on campus for a reunion. Tony's name came up many times. Personally, I was very indebted to Tony in that I was from Virginia and knew nobody when I arrived on The Citadel campus. Tony was a local fellow, and on several occasions, invited me to his home in Summerville for a weekend away from campus. He would always ask if I wanted to "come out to Julian and Betty Anne's for dinner". He was very kind and gracious. I enjoyed his friendship and loved him as a teammate. He was great student, a great athlete, and a generous friend to all he encountered. I am sorry that he is no longer with us. My memories of him will always bring a smile to my face.
Rest in Peace my Friend

Dave Kreber
Former Teammate and Classmate
The Citadel , Class of 1980

I had the distinct honor to coach Tony Turkett at The Citadel in 1978-1979. His picture will remain with his co-DG Scott Wages on my office wall in Tallahassee. To think that this man went on as he did to earn his doctorate in the Christain Faith is so gratifying. I know he is with Jesus and we will share tales in Heaven. God bless you Tony. Psalm 166 verse - 15 'Precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of His saints.' Love you, Tony.

The Brothers of The Class of 1980 are praying for Tony and his family! We are with you!
Roy Hulett '80

So sorry for your loss !
I was a classmate of Marks.
May God comfort and strengthen you to n the days ahead

My name is Tommy Sirisky I wrestled with Tony at the Citadel he was a good friend of mine my prayers are with his family

Lord, have mercy on Tony, his family and friends. Give them peace in the knowledge that Tony is now with is Lord and Savior.