A Kentucky state Senator has passed away following complications from a lawn mower accident.
Sen. Johnnie L. Turner, who represented Senate District 29 which covers Bell, Floyd, Harlan, Knott and Letcher counties, served in the House from 1999 until 2002. He was elected to the Senate in 2021.
Turner was up for re-election in the upcoming general election and will still appear on the ballot and his opponent, an independent, recently withdrew from the race. A special election will have to be held to fill the seat.
Many state leaders have released statements about Turner’s passing.
Senate President Robert Stivers: “I have known Johnnie (Turner) long before our paths crossed in public office. I will miss my friend; my heart breaks for his wife, Maritza, and his children. The love and admiration I, along with so many others, feel for Johnnie is immense, but I know it pales compared to the depth of love held by those closest to him.”
Kentucky U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell: “In recent years, I remember crossing paths with Johnnie (Turner) to survey the damage left by the devastating floods that hit Eastern Kentucky. Johnnie was on the scene, ankle-deep in mud, his equipment from home in tow, ready to help folks in Letcher County. That’s just who he was: a good man who loved the mountains and its people.”
House Speaker David Osborne: “On behalf of the Kentucky House of Representatives, I offer my deepest condolences to the family of Senator Johnnie Turner. Johnnie will be greatly missed and his loss will be felt throughout the halls of the Kentucky State Capitol where he served his constituents and Commonwealth so well. A committed public servant, Johnnie was an ardent champion and passionate voice for Eastern Kentucky. We are saddened by his loss, but know that his legacy will live on in those he helped.”