Wilford "Bud" Manuel Turman

Master Sergeant (United States Army Retired) Wilford "Bud" Manuel Turman, 81, of  Sanford, North Carolina passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025 at Central Carolina Hospital.   

He was born on August 5, 1943 in Hominy, Oklahoma.  Bud was the son of Phoebe Rose Fite and Wilford “Wally” Turman. He was one of fifteen children. At the age of 17 ,with the permission of his mother, he enlisted in the United States Army at Fort Bragg, North Carolina where he began and ended his military career .  He distinguished himself during his twenty years of service and was awarded several medals, badges, and decorations.  He was awarded the Master Parachutist Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Meritorious Unit Commendation and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.  He served honorably as a member of the elite 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) (the Green Berets) and with the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. From 1967 -1969 he served two tours in Vietnam.  He loved his country and sacrificed his life for the many freedoms we are blessed to have today.  After retiring,  he became one of many veterans who served his country well.    Bud was a man of many talents and believed in having a strong work ethic.  As part of his enjoyment ,as a civilian, he earned a third-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, coached  youth football in Fayetteville,  North Carolina and loved making cherished memories with his family, playing football, and visiting the mountains of North Carolina. To his grandchildren, he was affectionately known as “Papa Mud,” a name that captured both his warmth and gentle humor.  After serving in the Army, he founded several successful heating and air conditioning businesses, including the locally respected “Bud-Air.” He maintained his HVAC license until the age of 80 further reflecting his commitment to community and mentorship. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife of 51 years, Sylvia Maxine Fore Turman, his son Wilford “Buddy” Norman Turman, one grandson James Burrus and one great-grandson Rashee Ross . Bud is survived by his daughter Sylvia Diane Burrus (James) of Pensacola, FL; sons Ernest Mac Turman and Dustin Chad Turman of Sanford, NC; four grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter.

There will be a private memorial service with military honors at a later date.  Bud will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His unwavering devotion to family, strength of character, and generous spirit leaves behind a lasting legacy.

In lieu of flowers , the family request that you do an act of kindness for a service member or veteran.  

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