Kentucky state Senator Johnnie Turner, a notable figure known for his unwavering support of the coal industry and his commitment to the Appalachian region, has tragically passed away at the age of 76. His death followed a serious accident at home where he fell into an empty swimming pool while riding a lawn mower. The incident occurred last month, and Turner succumbed to his injuries on the evening of October 23, 2024.
Turner, a Republican from Harlan, was widely appreciated for his approachable personality and dedication to serving his constituents. In a statement released by Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers, Turner was remembered as a man who devoted his life to helping others. “Johnnie spent his life lifting others — whether through his service in the U.S. Army, as a member of the State House of Representatives and State Senate, or in his private legal practice,” Stivers noted. “His unwavering commitment to the people of eastern Kentucky — his constituents, brothers and sisters in Christ, whom he so fondly referred to as ‘his people’ — was at the heart of everything he did.”
U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell shared fond memories of Turner, recalling their encounter during a visit to eastern Kentucky to assess flood damage. “Johnnie was on the scene, ankle-deep in mud, his equipment from home in tow, ready to help folks in Letcher County,” McConnell stated. “That’s just who he was: a good man who loved the mountains and its people.”
Senate Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer described Turner’s death as heartbreaking, highlighting his kind nature and open-mindedness toward statewide initiatives. “He was just an amazing man of the mountains, who is kind and generous and open-minded about supporting initiatives that were good for the entire state, while at the same time being a fierce advocate for his region,” Thayer remarked.
Advocacy for the Coal Industry
Throughout his political career, Turner was a staunch advocate for the coal industry, a crucial aspect of the economy in eastern Kentucky. He actively supported pro-coal legislation, despite the industry’s decline due to cheaper natural gas prices and stricter environmental regulations. In an interview with CBS affiliate WYMT, Turner expressed his determination to keep the coal industry alive in Kentucky, stating, “This government trying to kill the coal industry it ain’t going to happen in Kentucky it just ain’t going to happen.”
Turner’s legislative efforts also extended beyond his district. He supported a significant horse racing bill that legalized wagering on historical racing machines, which provided a vital revenue stream for racetracks in Kentucky. This decision demonstrated his foresight in protecting another key industry from the challenges that had previously beset coal.
A Legacy of Service
Before serving in the state Senate, Turner was a member of the Kentucky House from 1999 to 2002. House Speaker David Osborne recognized Turner as a passionate voice for eastern Kentucky and expressed sadness over his passing, noting that “his legacy will live on in those he helped.”
Turner, an attorney, won a seat in the state Senate in 2020, defeating an incumbent Democrat. He recently overcame two challengers in the Republican primary. Born on Christmas Eve in 1947, Turner served in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1969 in the Panama Canal Zone, where he met his wife, Maritza.
Upcoming Elections
Turner’s death comes at a pivotal time, as his name will still appear on the general election ballot due to the timing of his passing. His sole challenger, an independent candidate, has withdrawn from the race. Write-in candidates have until the end of the week to file for his seat, but a special election may be necessary to fill the vacancy.
As Kentucky’s GOP-controlled legislature prepares for its 2025 session, lawmakers are currently engaged in interim committee meetings to discuss various issues in advance of the next year’s 30-day session. Turner’s contributions and dedication to his constituents will be remembered as his legacy continues to impact the region he loved.
