Gerald "Little Dude" Turner

Gerald Fletcher Turner II, affectionately known as "Little Dude," passed away on May 7th, 2024, at the age of 69 in Inman, SC. Born on March 3rd, 1955, to the late Pat and Dude Turner, in Spartanburg, SC.

A talented piano tuner for over 53 years, Dude's career began with his Case Brothers family in Spartanburg. In 1974, he received an emergency call from Greensboro, NC, just before a concert, to tune a piano for none other than Elton John. Although he was offered a full-time position as Elton John's personal piano tuner, he chose to remain close to home and his daughter, and continued his work in Spartanburg.

Dude was a passionate Atlanta Braves fan, never missing a game on TV. He was also an avid fisherman, earning him the nickname "Fishing Grandpa." Known for his love of people and social gatherings, Dude never met a stranger and cherished time spent with friends and family.

Dude is survived by his daughter, Dawn Turner Kunak (Troy), three grandchildren, James Kunak II (Tiffany), Landon Kunak (Tatum), and Jenna Kunak, and two great-grandchildren, Haidyn Kunak, and Millie Kunak.  He will also be remembered by his two devoted sisters Pam Bulman (Gil), and Vicki McCraw (Rodney) who always lovingly cared for their baby brother, a forever friend, Geri Smith, three nieces, three nephews, three great nieces, three great nephews and his eight-year-old kitty, Punkin.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in honor of “Little Dude” may be made to Mobile Meals,https://www.mobile-meals.org/donor-info, or the Spartanburg Humane Society https://spartanburghumane.org/donation-submission/.