AJ Turner, age 22, a resident of Colorado Springs, Colorado went to be with the Lord Wednesday, October 22, 2025. AJ was born on August 8, 2003, to Richard Turner and Doraine Miranda in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
AJ had the kindest and purest of hearts and possessed a beautiful innocence that he viewed the world through. His genuine empathy toward others touched everyone he met. He truly loved with all his heart. AJ had the gentlest smile, such kind eyes, a peaceful voice and joyous laughter.
His passion was performing. AJ has been cast in several musicals. He started choir at Freedom Elementary and continued all through High School. AJ was a competitive singer and was part of both the Regional and All State choirs.
He also performed in various plays. His earliest performance was singing the “Candy Man Can” in ‘Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory’ at Freedom Elementary. His last large production as an actor, AJ portrayed “Carbuckety” in the Musical ‘Cats’ as part of the UCCS Theater company at the beautiful UCCS Ent Center in March 2024.
AJ was also a self-taught composer and started band in 4th grade. He composed 100’s of sheets of music and could compose for each instrument and vocal range in any given piece. His craft was in depth and produced music several layers deep; upwards of 50 or more layers in just one piece. AJ was a natural.
He had a strong Christian faith that sustained him and became his strength and hope. His faith increased, and his love for the Lord grew each day. Even in the worst of times, AJ would say “Thank you Jesus”. He trusted in His Lord and Savior and The Lord gave AJ peace and comfort.
AJ graduated from Doherty High in May of 2022. He went on to attend UCCS as a Theater Major.
He is survived by his parents, Richard Turner and Doraine Miranda; and his sisters, Racheal Turner and Arianna Turner. He is also survived by his grandmothers, Tam Turner and Dora Miranda; several uncles, aunts, cousins and extended Family. He was preceded in death by both grandfathers, Don Turner and Chris Miranda; his uncle, Ronald Miranda; and cousin, John Miranda.
A private memorial service will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025. Interment will follow immediately at the Evergreen Cemetery, 1005 Hancock Expressway, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903.
Pallbearers are William Turner, Michael Lopez, Frank E Miranda, Mitchell Miranda, Linald Miranda and Richie Miranda.
Aj will surely be missed. He sure did have one of the sweetest most kindest souls that we know. His smile could light up a room. Prayers and thoughts go out to all family and friends of the Turner family.
Heartbroken to hear this Doraine. I know you always spoke well and often about AJ, a very proud Mother. Let us know if you need anything in this trying time.
The Curristine Family
Our deepest sympathies, Doraine. We cannot imagine the anguish you’re going through in losing AJ. Please know that God is with you and your whole family during these difficult days. Chris and Karen Bonnett
AJ was a light in the dark. He always had the biggest smile on his face and would make everyone feel seen. He remembered names and faces and made sure to include everyone. Once I showed him some of my drawings and he told me how good they were and after thinking my art was terrible, he made it seem like it was one of the best things he had ever seen just because that was the type of person he was. The world is a little darker without AJ, but I hope his angel can guide me to be someone like him. Love and miss you AJ, you are missed every day. ❤️ -Lilly