Mary Ann Turner

Dr. Mary Ann Turner, 88, of Bella Vista, Ark., passed away October 6, 2020, at Highland Health and Rehabilitation. She was born in Washington Court House, Ohio. November 7, 1931, daughter of the late Dale William Turner and Marjorie Bashore Turner. Mary Ann graduated from Ohio State University with both a Master's Degree and Doctorate of Physical Education. She taught Physical Education and Coached Women's Sports in Universities and Colleges in Ohio, Iowa, Colorado, and California, retiring from the University of California at Sacramento. A recognized authority in Women's Physical Education, she received many honors in her field of academics. She served as Chair of the California Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. She was an active member of the Ohio State University Athletic Supporters Organization and contributed to the Ohio State University Development Fund. She was induced into the Heritage Society at Ohio State University in 2008 and the Towers of Old Main at the University of Arkansas in 2009. Her love of Razorback Athletics held on equal. She was a huge supporter of the Razorback Foundation and Women's Basketball in particular. Mary Ann loved to "glamp" and fish at Island View Resort near Hope, Idaho, where she caught her record breaking Kamloop Girard Rainbow Trout, she referred to as "Lady Fish", on Lake Pend Oreille. Upon her retirement, she continued to enjoy traveling, including Homecoming Events at Ohio State University and especially her "bucket list" adventure cruising the Scandinavian coast. Retirement also allowed Mary Ann to oversee the design and construction of her "dream home" and some golfing on the adjoining course. Everyone who knew Mary Ann knew her affection for her pets, including her last feline companions Mai Gai and Bucky who were a constant joy to her. Mary Ann was a Friend of the local Animal Shelter in Bella Vista. A private service of Remembrance will be held at a later date. Mary Ann is survived by her special friends and a host of students she inspired over her 45 years of teaching her passion. Those who wish to remember Mary Ann in a special way may make a donation in her memory to Circle of Life Hospice of Northwest Arkansas or the Bella Vista Animal Shelter. Arrangements are by Bella Vista Funeral Home and Crematory. Condolences may be expressed at www.funeralmation.com.