09/10/2025
Below is the obituary for our Romney Dolphin Swim Team coach, Bob Turner. Romney Dolphins team was started by Bob in 1987 for children and teens in our area so that they could learn to swim, work as a team, improve and gain confidence. Bob devotedly worked with the swimmers every evening after work swimming laps for an hour or more and most importantly not to worry about the guy in the next lane but to "beat your own time." His kindness and caring were always evident.
MT. PLEASANT, SC - Robert D Turner Jr, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 16, 2025, in Mt. Pleasant, SC. Bob was born in Princeton, WV, where he met his wife, Susan, and spent his early years before moving to Romney, WV and living there for many years while growing their family, including daughters, Beth and Jill.
Bob was the beloved son of Mary Lee and Dan Turner, who nurtured his curious spirit and instilled in him a love for learning. He was preceded in death by his father (Robert D Turner Sr), his mother (Mary Lee Turner), and his sister (Carol Turner). His absence will be felt deeply by all who knew and loved him.
Bob is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Susan, and his two devoted daughters with their husbands, Beth and Jonathon Santilli of Mt. Pleasant, SC and Jill and Pavel Ortinski of Lexington, KY. He was a proud grandfather, leaving behind his adoring granddaughters (Megan Santilli, Allison Santilli, and Emilia Ortinski), and his loving grandsons (Elliot Ortinski and Maxwell Ortinski), all of whom brought him immense joy and pride. Susan’s brother, Doug Wood, and sister-in-law, Billie Ray Wood, were also very close to Bob and shared many laughs and good times together. The entire family is grateful for Bob and the cherished memories they created with him.
Bob will be greatly missed. He had a lifelong career as an engineer with most of his time spent in the telecommunications industry. He was also a man that left his community more whole. His long-time love of swimming led him to found the Romney Swim Team in 1986, which he coached for nearly 20 years while mentoring young swimmers both in and out of the pool. He taught those around him to root for the underdog and to always pull those up from behind. His laughter, warmth, and encouragement were a gift to everyone who knew him.
A Memorial Service was held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, August 29, 2025 at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home, Princeton, WV. Interment followed at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton.
In lieu of flowers, the family would request donations be made to the Romney Swim Pool Project (https://gofund.me/85d73b76). Also, debit ACH pledge is available on this page as well.
Susan's address is available if you would like to DM us.
