Justin Heber Turner

Justin Heber Turner, 45, suffered a fatal drug overdose and passed away on February 12, 2026 at Utah Valley Hospital leaving behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and memories that those who loved him will be telling for years to come. Known to many simply as Justin—and to friends as “Turner”—he was the kind of man who could make you laugh without trying and would drop what he was doing to help a friend in need.

Justin was smart, funny, and deeply generous. Mechanically inclined and skilled with his hands, he worked for many years at NAPA auto parts and Elevate Health Sciences, where he took pride in fixing problems and keeping things running smoothly. He had a natural curiosity and loved a good story, whether it came from a book, a television show (The Simpsons and The Sopranos being among his favorites), or a conversation with someone new.

He was a man of strong and very specific tastes. Family dinners could be an adventure, as Justin was famously selective—perfectly content with meat, rolls, and the comfort of knowing exactly what was on his plate. Cheeseburgers were eaten plain, always. It took him more than 40 years to discover butter on pancakes, but once he did, he fully appreciated the upgrade. Vegetables, however, remained a lifelong negotiation. Ice cream was a favorite treat, though frozen custard never quite made the cut.

Justin’s personality was larger than life, matched only by his equally large feet—finding shoes that fit was always a challenge. He was known for wearing his pants a little low, something that amused (and occasionally shocked) family and friends. One memorable Christmas, Justin's gift to his family was getting a pair of anti-plumber (or peek proof) pants—proof of the humor and love that surrounded him.

He answered the phone with a cheerful “Ahoy-hoy,” a greeting that perfectly captured his playful spirit and refusal to take life too seriously.

Like many families, Justin’s loved ones understood that life is not always easy. They hope that in honoring Justin’s memory, others who struggle with addiction—or who love someone who does—know they are not alone. There is help, there is hope, and there are people who care deeply about you. If Justin taught anything, it was that people are more than their struggles, and everyone deserves patience, compassion, and another chance to be understood.

Above all, Justin will be remembered as someone who showed up for people. He was loyal, helpful, and authentic—someone who made everyday moments brighter simply by being himself.

Justin’s life reminds us that perfection isn’t found in polished edges, but in laughter, loyalty, and being unapologetically who you are. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the ICU staff at Utah Valley Hospital and the DonorConnect team who took such good care of Justin until he could give the gift of life by donating his heart, kidneys, and liver (the biggest liver they had ever seen).

Justin was preceded in death by his mother, Claudia Turner, Grandparents Glen and Lucille Turner and George Wesley and Rena Boyle. He is survived by his father, Jon Turner and siblings Jon Turner, Jennifer Turner, Jessica (Jory) Topham, James (Liz Garcia) Turner, and Julie (Carlos) Garcia and many nieces and nephews who loved him.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life in Justin's honor at the Spring Creek 1st Ward, 860 East 200 North, Springville, Utah on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 from 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Interment will be in Evergreen Cemetery in Springville,

Condolences may be expressed to the family on this page.