MAXWELL TURNER

A Friend, Colleague, and Individual Who Left A Legacy of Endurance and Trust

Ican’t help becoming emotional as I contemplate what needs to be said about a man who left his influence on this magazine. And, while we only knew each other for a few short years, we connected in a manner that earned mutual respect and understanding.

Maxwell Fisher Turner, “Mac” as he was known, left this world on December 29, 2022. It was just a few weeks after our last conversation, and like so many other discussions we enjoyed, the 83-year-old entrepreneur and “sales guy,” as he liked to call himself, spoke about clients, our health, and current events. You’d never know anything was wrong—he never complained, and always carried a ray of hope.

What impressed me about Mac was how our chats concluded—always with a compliment; like few others, the former New York City/Madison Avenue advertising executive from yesteryear knew the effort and tenacity it takes to publish monthly lifestyle magazines. And while I had heard it all before, coming from Mac was an honor—I held his words close.

How we met and became friends is peculiar and taught me a lesson.

I vividly recall the first gravel voice phone message left by Mac; I listened as he ticked off a list of credentials and explained his willingness to do what it takes to sell advertising. He concluded with a startling comment, “The only reason I’m calling you is because of your quality—you’re the best in the business.”

I am embarrassed to say, while impressed, I didn’t respond to his message; or the many he continued to leave —for two years.

Our one-sided correspondence became routine. Typically, such endurance would yield a result, but it didn’t; it seemed there was never enough time, and in all truth, I grew tired of promises made by those eager to score an interview but lacking substance and follow through.

Finally, the day came; flooded with guilt, I called Mac, realizing he would be pleased to hear from me, and I also knew he would never give up; the man wore me down—Mac won!

Mac Turner touched many people; born on January 23, 1939, according to his published obituary, he was the son of the late Maxwell Turner and Elizabeth Borden Gardner Turner; he had a brother, the late Dr. Richard B. Turner.

An extremely affable gentleman, he was educated at Friends Academy, Tabor Academy, and Boston University; he was a member of the Union Boat Club and a historian.

Quick-witted, full of energy, with an unquenchable thirst to persuade others, his career spanned stints as a stockbroker, advertising executive for the Wall Street Journal, owner of a commercial lobster boat, and proprietor of Maxell’s Mussels Company; he was also involved in real estate.

Mac was an impressive, dedicated, and committed figure; he focused on helping others until the end.

A Memorial Service was held in January at the United Congregational Church of Little Compton, Rhode Island, to celebrate his life.

Mac, I’ll never forget you and your impact on me— I miss your calls.

Always, Steve

Comfortable and relaxing, the well-appointed residence, with magnificent architectural elements, illustrates the benefits and value of coastal life.