Kerry Turner of HPG Brands / BEST Promotions USA passed away on January 16 from COVID-19 complications.

An 46-year industry veteran, Turner was known for his cheerful personality, kindness, integrity and great passion for the promotional business. A graduate of the University of North Texas, Turner founded supplier Kerry’s Etcetera in 1974, specializing in mug and glassware fine decorating. He started the company with assistance from his parents and originally operated it out of their garage. Turner sold Kerry’s Etcetera to Kaufman, Texas-based supplier Numo Manufacturing in 2003. He spent 12 years on Numo’s staff before joining BEST Promotions USA in Balch Springs, Texas.

With a reputation as “the most interesting man in promo,” Turner had many interests, including his own rock band, the Young Texans, during his high school and college years. He was also a member of the Southern Drag Boat Association, where he held a world record for more than a year. He then became professional-level national competitor and instructor in West Coast Swing, where he met his wife Alisha. He also enjoyed motorcycles and was a road captain for Dallas Harley-Davidson, and enjoyed cooking chili, winning several events at the highest level in the CASI Terlingua Championships.

“Kerry was the definition of the word ‘gentleman,’” says BEST USA Founder Michael Hicks. “His consummate professionalism, kindness, caring, integrity and many contributions to HPG’s BEST USA brand will never be forgotten. We can all learn to be better people by the example of how Kerry treated others each and every day.”

Turner is survived by his wife Alisha and their daughter six-year-old daughter Addilyn. No public service is currently planned due to COVID-19 risks, although information will be forthcoming regarding a future virtual service. To honor Turner’s memory and to help Addilyn’s future, contributions can be made here.