Berlin shocked by passing of local icon, Jesse Turner

Former Berlin Shoe Box owner Jesse Turner passed away on Friday, following an apparent battle with cancer.

The Accomack, Virginia native operated the iconic shop in downtown Berlin for several decades. He worked in the industry – in the town – since the late 1940s.

His influence, however, was more than business owner and cobbler. People in the community fondly referred to him “The Mayor of Germantown.”

Turner was honored by the Berlin Town Council and by members of the community at separate ceremonies following his retirement in February. He was born in 1930.

Berlin Mayor Gee Williams reacted to the news on Mondays, saying, “Shock is an understatement.”

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