Tributes have been paid to Dumfries veteran Major William Turner, who spearheaded the region’s annual Scottish Poppy Appeal efforts.
His funeral service will be held on Wednesday, February 19, at 12.45pm at St John’s Church in Dumfries, followed by a private burial at St Blane’s Cemetery in Kirkton.
Well-wishers are warmly invited to also attend a wake afterwards at The Cairndale Hotel at 2pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the KOSB Association in his memory.
A well-kent face around the town every late October and early November, he helped Dumfriesshire raise more than £250,000 in support of the Scottish Poppy Appeal.
He built relationships with local schools, businesses and third sector organisations, ensuring that the iconic Scottish Poppy beats at the heart of Dumfries during Remembrance.
A Military Cross holder – the third-highest military decoration for gallantry in the British Army – Major Turner served as an honorary president of the Royal British Legion Dumfries and Maxwelltown branch.
He was often seen at parades and at wreath-laying ceremonies for the fallen in the town each year.
A tribute posted by the RBL branch and the Dumfries Veterans Garden abut his life stated: “Major Willie Turner was a formidable presence, known for his stubborn determination and love for rugby, which mirrored the steadfastness he brought to all aspects of his life.
“He served the King’s Own Scottish Borderers in the regular army then with the TA. After that, he dedicated 13 years to the Royal British Legion, cumulatively offering more than half a century of distinguished service to his country and community.
“As president of the Dumfries British Legion branch, he raised more than £250,000 for the Poppy Appeal, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to veterans and their families.
“He passionately advocatied for improved mental health provisions for veterans in the region.
“Willie Turner was a good husband, son, uncle, and a true Borderer.
“His memory will be cherished by his family, friends, comrades, and all whose lives he touched. May he rest in peace.”
Among those to post tributes was the Veterans Garden’s padre who said: “Sad news. A good and faithful servant, he was one in a million.”
Richard Reade described him as: “An officer and a gentleman who served his country well over many years.”
Chris Woodness paid tribute: “Condolences to all who had the pleasure of knowing Major Willie Turner. To his family and to those who served with him. A great loss to us all.”
Myra Smith BEM, community champion at Morrisons in Dumfries, said: “This man did so much every year for the Poppy Appeal and was always grateful for the money we raised at my work. RIP William.”