Jay Simpson: Mentor meant the world to me and so many others

Jay Simpson, The News-Gazette, Champaign-Urbana, Ill.
·2 min read

Mar. 1—Submit a Letter to the Editor here

I would like to give my deepest condolences to the Harvey/Turner family after losing a staple in not only their family but in our community.

Devon "Wayne" Turner was a father, husband, father figure, role model, mentor, coach, family man, motivator ... the list goes on and on.

His passing this week was a huge loss. A two-time heart transplant survivor, Big Wayne was determined to give back, concerned about the legacy he would leave.

"If this doesn't work out," he told The News-Gazette before his second transplant, "what kind of mark did I leave? What more could I do for my community before I leave here?"

He's another one of the men around Champaign who watched me and so many other young men grow up. Anytime we needed Wayne, he was always there to help anyway he could. He'd been through so much and experienced so many things that there wasn't anything that we did that he hadn't seen or done. Having someone like that to reach out to in a time of need was critical.

The impact Wayne had on our community was huge. His mentor group, Boyz2Men — recognized by the NAACP Champaign County branch — is one of the best things we have for our young Black males. They taught us how to be great young men and introduced us to new experiences like traveling out of state.

You'd be surprised at how many kids had never even left Champaign before Big Wayne and the other Boyz2Men staff came into their lives.

I want to thank Wayne and all of the other men for taking time out of their lives to help our youth — it will never be forgotten.

Wayne fought a great fight and even during the not-so-good circumstances, he always kept a positive mindset. That alone helped me learn to be grateful and how to appreciate a second chance.

So condolences to his wife and kids. I pray you can stay strong during this tough time.

Wayne meant so much to so many people and poured his heart into this community and we are better because of him.

We miss you Big Wayne, your legacy will live forever!