Calista Turner

Calista Sheffield Turner, affectionately known as Phyllis by her friends, passed away on March 8, 2026, at the age of 104, in Malvern, Alabama formerly of Dothan. Born on January 16, 1922, in Miller County, Georgia, to the late Charlie and Sallie Sheffield, Phyllis was a beacon of resilience and joy throughout her long and fulfilling life.

Calista's early years in Georgia laid the foundation for a life marked by hard work and determination. As the world changed around her, she adapted and thrived, making her way to New Jersey during the war years where she contributed to the war effort as a dedicated factory worker. Calista 's work ethic and spirit of service were evident in everything she did.

Life brought Calista as she found companionship and partnership with her late husbands, Amon Troy Conrad and Duward Turner. Though they predeceased her, the love and lessons from these unions stayed with her always. Calista was also preceded in death by her stepchildren Dianne, Jerry, Larry, and Ronnie Turner, as well as her siblings Idus Bush, Ivey Bush, Lovern Womble, Davis Bush, Nellie Spooner, Geree Whidner, and Henry Sheffield. Their memories remained a cherished part of her story.

Calista 's legacy continues through her beloved daughter, Susan Conrad Culpepper, and her husband, Tommy. She was a proud grandmother to Troy Culpepper and his wife, Rosy, and Todd Culpepper and his wife, Dana. Her great-grandchildren, Tucker, Trevor, Wesley, and Wyatt, were a source of immense pride and joy, as were her numerous step-great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry forward her zest for life.

Known for her love of the outdoors, Calista could often be found basking in the beauty of nature, which provided her with endless happiness and serenity. An avid reader, she also enjoyed the quiet pleasure of a good book, which was a testament to her lifelong love of learning and exploration. Calista was known to be a busy body, always finding something to do or someone to help. Her feisty spirit and quick wit were hallmarks of her personality, endearing her to everyone she met.

Calista 's life was a tapestry of experiences woven with threads of love, hard work, and engagement with the world around her. Her presence was a gift to those who knew her, and her memory will be treasured as a reminder of a life well-lived.

A celebration of Calista’s life will be held at 2:00pm on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at Sunset Funeral Home with Scott Messer officiating. She will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 1:00pm – 2:00pm.