Sharon Marie Branch-Turner

Sharon Marie Branch Turner, 65, was called home to rest eternally in the presence of the Lord ,on Saturday, March 1, 2025, surrounded by her loving family in Norfolk, VA. She was born on April 6, 1959, to the late Helen M. and Lloyd A. Branch Sr. in Norfolk, VA. Sharon was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, known for her radiant smile, compassionate heart, and ability to bring joy to any situation. Sharon graduated from Lake Taylor High School and continued her education at Norfolk State University, Phoenix University, and Everest College, earning degrees in Early Childhood Education, Special Education, and Medical Billing and Coding. Her love for children and the community led her to a fulfilling career with Norfolk Public Schools, where she worked as a Special Education Paraprofessional, Educator, and Bus Driver for over 20 years before retiring in 2007.

Sharon continued her service to the community through Portsmouth Parks and Recreation, where she worked for 10 years until her retirement in 2022. She also held various positions in customer service, including at K-Mart and Hampton Roads Transit. On March 31, 2007, Sharon married the love of her life, the late Carlos A. Turner. Together, they raised three children: Melissa, LaShonda, and Lymon. Sharon also embraced her role as a bonus mother to three additional children: Latoya, Corey, and Carlos. She was a proud grandmother of nine grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Sharon’s family was the center of her world, and she cherished every moment spent with them, making countless precious memories. A woman of deep faith, Sharon became a member of Saint Mark Missionary Baptist Church in Portsmouth, VA, in 2010, where she actively served in several ministries, including the Van Ministry, Women’s Ministry, Senior Missionary Ministry, and Tribal Ministry (Tribal Dan). She was also a dedicated member of Mount Hermon Chapter No. 19, The Order of Eastern Star were she served as the Trustee of the North. Sharon’s love for the Lord was evident in her daily life, and she shared her joy for life through song, dance, and fellowship with family and friends. Sharon was a pillar of strength, grace, and resilience, offering warmth and comfort to all who knew her. To her children, grandchildren, and bonus children—who affectionately called her “MA Sharon”—she was more than just a mother. She was a nurturer, protector, confidant, and the heart of the family. Her love knew no boundaries, and her kindness left an indelible mark on each of us. She was our safe place, our guide, and the greatest example of God’s love and strength.

Sharon is preceded in death by her husband, Carlos A. Turner; her parents, Helen M. and Lloyd A. Branch Sr.; one son, Terrell Branch; her brother, Lloyd A. Branch Jr.; and her maternal and paternal grandparents.

She is survived by her children: Melissa D. Branch, LaShonda D. Branch-Bell (Deron Bell) of Norfolk, VA, Lymon D. Branch of Atlanta, GA, LaToya Taylor of Portsmouth, VA, Carlos Turner (Olivia) of Suffolk, VA, and Corey Turner of Richmond, VA; her grandchildren: Shantell Branch, Chaitoria Branch, Shkia Branch, Javion Branch, Khalil Turner, Kaelan Turner, Kobe Turner, Kaiden Turner, and Noah Thompson; her great granddaughter, Imani Branch; her brother, Charles Harrison (Deborah); her sister-in law, Michelle Craig; and her brother-in-law, Melvin Turner. Sharon is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and loved ones who will forever hold her memory close. Mommy, you are and always will be our queen and matriarch. We are truly blessed that God chose you to be our mother.