Clarinda Turpin 1979-2026

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — 

Clarinda Turpin, affectionately known to many as “Bear,” passed away on June 3, 2026. Born on April 15, 1979, Clarinda’s life was marked by her vibrant personality, infectious smile, and an unwavering devotion to family and friends. She was truly the life of any gathering and a beacon of warmth and strength to all who knew her.

Clarinda attend school in the Vicksburg Warren School District. Clarinda pursued a career that reflected her dedication and work ethic. She was employed by FedEx for over a year, where her commitment and positive spirit left a lasting impression on her colleagues.

Clarinda was a woman of bold spirit, strong will, and a caring heart. She naturally drew people in with her loving nature and was never one to shy away from leadership when the situation called for it. Her love was fierce, her laughter frequent, and she had the rare gift of never meeting a stranger.

One of Clarinda’s greatest joys was her family. Shortly after celebrating her birthday earlier this year, she inspired her sisters to spend more time together, leading to a cherished tradition of Saturday night gatherings. These evenings were filled with laughter, deep conversation, and love—moments that will be treasured by those who shared them and deeply missed in her absence.

Clarinda leaves behind a loving family who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts. She is survived by her devoted parents, Mary Ann Turpin and Clark Lee Turpin; her sisters Latasha Harris (Walter), Luciana Lockhart (Dayton), Thomasina Lockhart (Justin), LaSonya Turpin, Kimberly Wells, Jessica East, Stacy Hicks, and Dinah Smith; her brothers Peter Turpin and Jeremy Freeman, her bonus daughter and beloved niece, Legacy Lanier; as well as her honorary sisters Amanda “Mandy” Gibson and Machelle “Chelle” Lewis. Furthermore, she is remembered lovingly by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives, and many special friends whose lives she touched deeply.

Clarinda was preceded in death by her grandmothers Lily Mae Thomas and Rosie A. Scott; her grandfather’s Needham Lockhart and another whose name remains unavailable; her brother Dale Turpin; her great-niece T’Asia Freeman; and her uncle Edward Earl Edwards and aunt Hazel Lee Scott.

A visitation honoring Clarinda’s life will be held on June 19, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at C J Williams Mortuary Center, located at 1625 Monroe Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi, 39180. Following this, a Celebration of Life service will take place on June 20, 2026, from 2:00 p.m.  at House of Peace Worship Church International, 1301 Holly Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi, 39180.

Clarinda Turpin’s presence brightened every room she entered, and her legacy of love, laughter, and leadership will endure in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered with love and respect.