Joel Phillip “Phil” Turbeville, 82, passed away at Horizon Medical on October 22, 2026. He was born in Dickson, Tennessee, on August 28, 1944.
Phil married his high school sweetheart, Sandra (Hooper) Turbeville, on December 1, 1962. They shared nearly 64 years of marriage. A devoted Christian and longtime member of Walnut Street Church of Christ, Phil loved his family and worked hard to leave a lasting legacy for those who came after him. He proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1962 to 1970, reaching the rank of staff sergeant. A Vietnam veteran, Phil served as a security policeman and K-9 handler. During his tour in Vietnam from 1967 to 1968, he worked with his faithful K-9 partner, Diablo. His other K-9 partners were Fritz and Duke.
His military decorations included the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal. Phil enjoyed playing golf and cheering for the Tennessee Volunteers. After living with Parkinson’s disease, he is now free from that burden and at home with his Lord. His family finds comfort in knowing that he finished his race and won the victory.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Doyle and Edna Turbeville.
He is survived by his wife, Sandra; his children, Jeff Turbeville and his wife, Keri, Krista Millhouse and her husband, Tony, and Joey Turbeville and his wife, Marta; his sister, Doylene Corlew, and her husband, Dale; his grandchildren, Carter Turbeville and his wife, Sarah, Haley Millhouse and Addie Millhouse; and his great-grandsons, Hudson and Luke.
Visitation will be held at Taylor Funeral Home on Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 2:00 p.m. Burial with military honors will be held Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Middle Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery.
Phil will be greatly missed by his family and friends, but they are thankful for the years they shared with him and the memories that will always remain.