Jay Kirkwood Turner

Jay Turner, of Gilbert, Arizona, passed away suddenly on July 9, 2026, at the age of 74. Born in Sacramento, California, on April 15, 1952, Jay lived a full and interesting life marked by family, friendships, adventure, and a distinguished career in the oil and gas industry.

Jay attended California State University, Fresno. After graduating, he began his career in Alaska, where he worked as a mud engineer for Baroid, a company that was later acquired by Halliburton. His work took him from Alaska to Houston and eventually around the world. Over the course of his career, Jay worked as an international engineer, traveling extensively throughout the United States and Canada and to Australia, the Middle East, Europe, and South America. His profession introduced him to people and places around the globe, and he developed many lasting friendships and business relationships along the way.

Jay retired from his full-time career in 2017 and moved to Gilbert, Arizona. Retirement, however, did not mean slowing down. He continued working as a consultant and instructor for Halliburton, sharing the knowledge and experience he had gained over decades in the industry until shortly before his passing.

Outside of work, Jay had a genuine love for the outdoors and for hobbies that kept him active and engaged. Some of his happiest times were spent hunting and fishing, particularly in the wilds of Alaska. He also enjoyed radio-controlled model boats and was an avid firearms enthusiast. Jay had a curious mind, a practical nature, and a willingness to learn and try new things.

Jay was married to Karen for 43 years. Together they shared a life filled with travel, work, friends, and many experiences across the country and beyond.

Jay will be remembered by his family, friends, former colleagues, and business associates as a knowledgeable and capable professional, an adventurous outdoorsman, and a man who formed lasting connections wherever life took him. His sudden passing leaves behind many people who were fortunate to know him and share part of his journey.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered