John Joseph Turner, Sr.

John Joseph “Jack” Turner, 88, of Ambler, PA, passed peacefully at home on September 20.

Jack was born on August 31, 1937, in Philadelphia to John and Rose Turner. He grew up in Olney alongside his younger brother Paul, spending his boyhood playing ball in the streets, swimming in Neshaminy Creek, and fishing at Long Beach Island. Those simple joys laid the foundation for a life filled with energy, loyalty, and love.

After graduating Jay Cooke Junior High in 1952, Jack enrolled at Germantown Academy. GA was transformative for Jack. There he found both challenge and opportunity. He worked hard in the classroom, starred on the field, and, when his father died suddenly during his junior year, the school rallied to keep him enrolled. That generosity left an indelible mark and helped shape Jack into the devoted teacher and coach he would one day become.

The University of Delaware was the next stage of Jack’s journey. He was a two-sport star, leading the baseball team in hitting and rewriting football’s record books as an All-American running back. His athletic achievements earned him a place in Delaware’s Hall of Fame, but more importantly, they revealed the passion and determination he carried into every pursuit.

In 1954, Jack met the love of his life, Dolores Guinan, at a St. Patrick’s Day church dance. Four years later standing in front of that same church, Dolores said yes. They were married on June 18, 1960 at Saint Ambrose Church in Kensington, beginning a marriage that would span 65 years. Together, they built a family and a home that came to be known as “The Turner Inn,” a place where everyone—relatives, friends, students, colleagues—was welcomed, fed, and loved. Summers at their Surf City home, “Turner Inn II,” carried that same spirit of gathering, laughter, and belonging.

Jack’s professional life reflected his character: hardworking, demanding, yet deeply caring. After a stint with the Houston Oilers and service in the Army Reserves, he returned to Germantown Academy as teacher, athletic director, and coach. Over 24 years, “Coach Turner” became a legend. As head football coach, he won championships and more games (103) than anyone in GA’s long history, but his true victories were the young lives he shaped. His players knew that Jack believed in them, not just as athletes, but as people called to live with integrity, discipline, and heart.

In 1988, Jack fulfilled a boyhood dream by joining the Philadelphia Phillies as a coach along with his life-long friend, Lee Elia. In 1989, he brought his leadership and construction talents to The Klein Company, where his respect for colleagues and contractors alike inspired loyalty and admiration. Whether on the field, in the classroom, or on the job site, Jack led with fairness, high standards, and genuine care.

His professional accomplishments notwithstanding, family remained his greatest joy. He was happiest surrounded by Dolores, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—often with a project in hand, a meal on the table, or a story to tell. Even in the face of illness, Jack’s optimism never wavered. His optimism, humor, and faith carried him and his family through challenges with grace. Dolores and Jack’s family are grateful to the remarkable staff at Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Hope Lodge, Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital, Visiting Angels, The 501 Mattison, and Ennoble Hospice for their skill and compassion.

Jack is survived by his beloved wife, Dolores; his brother Paul (Mareline); his children John Jr., Mary Jo (Ross), Jim (Lisa), and Michael (Meredith); nine grandchildren: Sean (Clare), Melissa (Fitz), Jeannie (Austin), Kim (Tom), Jack (Jackie), Karly, Maggie, Fran, Augie; seven great-grandchildren: Lyla, Ruby, Penny, Goldie, Wesley, Jack, Bodie; and many nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Family and friends are invited to his visitation Tuesday, November 18, 2025 from 6:30-8:30PM at St. Genevieve Church, 1225 Bethlehem Pike Flourtown, PA 19031. A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 10AM at the church. Interment will be private. (Please note: there will be no morning visitation). Family and friends are welcome to a reception immediately following at PineCrest Country Club (101 Country Club Dr, Lansdale, PA 19446).

In lieu of flowers, gifts in Jack’s honor may be made to the Jack Turner '56 Endowment at Germantown Academy (germantownacademy.net/support-ga, 340 Morris Road, Fort Washington, PA 19034) --or-- to Hope Lodge ((raiseyourway.donordrive.com/pages/1216 110 W Laurel Ave, Cheltenham, PA 19012).