David Turner

We celebrate the life and memory of David Turner, age 62, of Columbia, SC, who entered eternal rest on August 6, 2026.

Dave was a gentle, kind soul who left a lasting impression on those who truly knew his heart. Earlier this year, Dave made the courageous choice to embrace life, overcoming addiction and beginning to heal. He faced cirrhosis with a warrior’s heart, and those who knew and loved him were deeply proud of his strength and transformation. He met each challenge with quiet determination, reflecting his desire to build a beautiful life. Though his illness reflected past struggles, the true story of his final time on earth was one of profound triumph. Dave found absolute truth and unshakeable acceptance in his fiancé, Melinda Hargrave Moore, the love of his life. Though his journey was complicated by difficult dynamics, the truth of his heart, his choices, and his love belonged fully to the life he chose to build with her. Though some could not understand or welcome the beautiful bond they shared, Melinda remained his anchor, providing the pure, unwavering unconditional love he deserved.

An extraordinary entrepreneur and visionary, Dave was well-known throughout Rochester, New York, and the surrounding areas as the proud owner of six successful fitness centers. Through his gyms, he did more than build a business; he created vibrant communities, inspired countless individuals to live healthier lives, and shared his own boundless energy with everyone who walked through the doors.

In addition to his success in the fitness industry, Dave possessed a rare, brilliant talent for sales. He spent years building a highly respected career working with point-of-sale systems, where his natural charisma, sharp intellect, and genuine ability to connect with people made him an absolute force in his field. He was a natural leader who could turn any challenge into an opportunity.

Dave was a man of deep love and immense heart. He held a profound, unconditional love for his children, Nicholas David Turner, Austin Thomas Turner, and Blake Edward Turner, and his cherished grandchildren, always wishing the absolute best for their lives and holding them close in his heart.

Dave was a man who lived at full throttle. An exceptional athlete from his early days, his energy was infectious and his drive unmatched. He brought that same fierce passion and precision to his favorite prized possession: his car. He loved nothing more than the roar of the engine, the gleam of a fresh wax, and the freedom of the open road on a crisp morning.

Yet, his truest sanctuary was on the water. A captain at heart, Dave was happiest at the helm of his boat, cutting through the waves with the wind in his face and the sun on his back. The water was where he went to recharge, to laugh with friends, and to find a unique kind of peace that only the horizon could provide.

Though his absence leaves a profound void, his spirit is finally free, surrounded by pure love and eternal peace. A celebration of Dave’s life and legacy will be held on August 22, 2026, at 3:00 pm at Schooner’s Grill located at 6226 Bush River Rd. – Columbia, SC 29212.