7/19/07
Wright On
Judge Turbeville starts and ends his career at church
By Eric Goold

SAM LEVY/Manning Times

The Honorable R. Wright Turbeville, far right, watches with members of his family as his grandsons unveil Turbeville’s portrait in a retirement ceremony at the Manning Methodist Church last Friday. Turbeville retired from the bench of the Family Court after 15 years of service.

The Honorable R. Wright Turbeville received praise from friends, family and colleagues last Friday afternoon during a retirement ceremony in the sanctuary at the Manning Methodist Church.

The sanctuary was graciously offered as a meeting place for Turbeville’s retirement ceremony after the air conditioning would not turn on at the courthouse during a sweltering day.

It was appropriate, seeing as how Turbeville was a preacher before becoming a lawyer and judge.

“You began your career in a church,” joked longtime friend and partner Nelson Parker, president of the Clarendon County Bar Association. “No matter how hard we tried to end it in a courtroom, we ended up back in church.”

Judge Ferrell Cothran presided over the ceremony and Reverend G. Devere Williams gave the invocation and benediction.

Turbeville retired after 15 distinguished years as a judge in the Family Court. He got his first job as a lawyer working for Sen. John Land’s law firm, and Land recalled those early years during his remarks.

“Thank you for being here on this special occasion for this special man,” said Land. “It was 30 years ago that Wright Turbeville and Nelson Parker finished law school and came to Clarendon County looking for jobs.

“I interviewed them, and liked them,” said Land. “But I told them, I can hire one of you at $15,000 a year or I can hire both of you at $7,500 a year. You decide.”

Turbeville and Parker agreed take the jobs at $7,500 apiece.

“That offer still stands if you want to come back,” Land said to much laughter and applause.

Representative Murrell Smith presented Turbeville with the Order of the Palmetto and read a letter along with it from Governor Mark Sanford, who said that South Carolina’s highest honor was given to Turbeville, “…in recognition for all you’ve done to better our world. You’ve been a tireless ambassador and South Carolina is blessed by your service.”

Drug Court Judge Bobbie Reaves praised Turbeville as a friend and colleague.

“All the roles he’s had involved helping others,” said Reaves. “He is a good counselor with a big heart, despite the tough shell he sometimes exhibits. He always looked to the best interests of the children.”

Reaves praised Turbeville’s ability to get to the heart of the matter, to weed out the chaff. She commended his reputation for fairness and said, “I’m proud to call you my friend.”

Family Court Judge (retired) Ruben Gray said that his remarks originally contained a roast of Turbeville, a roast that was, “…as hot as a summer sun. But since we’re in this beautiful edifice, I better think again.

“No one can question the depth or breadth of his wisdom or his knowledge of the law,” said Gray. “Judge Turbeville, you have just finished the first half of your life. Here’s hoping that the second half is just as rewarding.”

Parker unveiled a portrait of Turbeville that will go in the courthouse, joined in the presentation by Turbeville’s wife Dorothy, their family and grandchildren.

“I’m not sure what the Lord is trying to tell me,” said Turbeville. “I can say that I woke up today, and I’ve been retired 12 days, and I want a job.”

Turbeville said it was important for people to remember where they are, how they got there and remember the people who helped get them there.

“Taking that risk for $7,500 a year was the best thing I ever did,” he said. “God has blessed me in more ways than I deserved. I hope for the most part I did my best with what God gave me.”