Father continues legacy of his loved ones in a creative way
HUNTINGDON, Tenn. — Jesse Turner created a memorial in honor of his son, Nolan, and Nolan’s mother, Courtney, who were both killed in a drunk driving wreck. Turner has since raised money for an endowment scholarship in many unique ways.
“Part of the mission is yes, enriching students’ futures–investing in that. But, the other part of the mission, now, is to make a positive impact on the communities that they love,” said Turner.
Turner has made connections with artists in Huntingdon and Carroll County. Both of these locations were home to Courtney and Nolan.
“When we started the memorial fund, we really just were raising money for scholarships and we wanted to do something that was fun, creative–kind of like how they lived, instead of it being kind of sad,” said Turner.
In the past they have created cups, t-shirts and bracelets contributing local artists’ work and drawings from Courtney and Nolan. Their recent creation is artwork from Nolan.
This design came from lack of decorations from Nolan’s 11th birthday party.
“I didn’t have any decorations though. Like we had cake and things and he said ‘Oh I can draw something.’ He and his sister made this banner and had the idea to put twine through the paper–sketch it all out, and then he made a sign for it as well. So those were like his contributions to it. After the party, you know, usually throw that kind of stuff away and he was like ‘Can I hang this up in my room?’ and I was like ‘Absolutely.’ This is where he hung it and it’s hung here ever since,” said Turner.
These shirts are available for sale and funds will go towards the Nolan and Courtney Memorial Fund.
“When we first had it up for sale, we just made them here ourselves and a friend of mine, who was Nolan’s T-ball coach, was like when you’re ready I would love to help you,” said Turner.
Turner shared that these shirts are coming right on time for the Tennessee Vols games. He and his daughter will attend their first game really soon.
Turner says continuing Nolan’s legacy has been overall emotional for him.
“It’s really amazing, it’s something that was super emotional but also very–just a lot of gratefulness come up because art was something that he loved, and to see a team that he loved to even have seen his banner would’ve just made him so excited,” said Turner.
Nolan’s design will come in either orange and white or white and orange for fans to wear to checker Neyland games.
Turner also shares that Nolan’s sister has begun drawing since losing her brother.
To donate to the Nolan & Courtney Turner Memorial Fund, click here. To preorder a ‘Nolan Turner Go Vols’ shirt click here.
For more Carroll County news, click here.
