Marilyn Turner Obituary and Death: A former Detroit weathercaster who went on to host two popular local talk shows with her husband, John Kelly, has died at the age of 93.
Turner grew up in Ontario and became a weathercaster on Detroit’s WJBK-TV (Channel 2) in 1957. WXYZ hired Turner in 1973, a year after it hired John Kelly away from WJBK to co-anchor the evening news with Bill Bonds. Turner and Kelly married in December 1974. Together, they hosted WXYZ’s “Kelly & Co.” from 1977 to 1995. In front of a live audience, they interviewed celebrities and newsmakers (Kirk Douglas, Alyssa Milano, Donny Osmond, former President Jimmy Carter). They made a guest appearance on the soap opera, “General Hospital.” For four years, in the 1980s, they also hosted another talk show, “Good Afternoon, Detroit.”
Turner and her husband, John Kelly, went from news to a prototype of what the ‘Regis and Kathy’ show turned out to be nationally. During ‘Kelly & Company’s’ long run on Channel 7, they were the first stop for touring authors and entertainers and mixed in serious psych advice and sometimes just yucking it up. Kelly died in 2016. He was 88.
Turner was a beloved figure in Detroit, where she was known for her dedication to her craft and her commitment to keeping the community informed about weather events. During her time at WXYZ, Turner became a trusted source for viewers across the region. Her presence on the airwaves was a comforting one, as she guided viewers through storms, heatwaves, and everything in between with her trademark calm and reassuring demeanor.
In addition to her work as a weathercaster, Turner was also known for her philanthropic efforts. She was involved in numerous charitable organizations and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Turner’s passing has left a void in the hearts of many who knew her, both professionally and personally. Colleagues and friends have been quick to share their memories of her, remembering her as a dedicated professional and a kind and compassionate individual.
Turner started at Channel 7 in the 1970s as a weathercaster. Over the next two decades, she and her husband John Kelly hosted the popular WXYZ talk show “Kelly and Company” as well as “Good Afternoon Detroit.” In 2008, to mark the station’s 60th anniversary, Turner returned to Broadcast House to anchor the 7 p.m. newscast alongside Kelly and Bill Bonds. Turner was 93 years old when she passed away.
The news of her death has shocked and saddened many in the broadcasting community and beyond. While the cause of Turner’s death has not been confirmed, her legacy as a talented broadcaster and a caring individual will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. The news of her passing has sent shockwaves through the community, with many expressing their condolences and sharing their memories of the beloved weathercaster.
As the details of Turner’s passing continue to unfold, one thing is certain: she will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Her impact on the broadcasting world and the lives of those she touched will never be forgotten. In the coming days, as we mourn the loss of Marilyn Turner, we can take comfort in the knowledge that her spirit will live on through the memories we hold dear.
Turner was a mentor to many in the industry, and her presence will be sorely missed. Her legacy as a talented broadcaster and a caring individual will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She was a true legend in the industry, and her passing marks the end of an era. She will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Her impact on the broadcasting world and the lives of those she touched will never be forgotten. In the coming days, as we mourn the loss of Marilyn Turner, we can take comfort in the knowledge that her spirit will live on through the memories we hold dear. Rest in peace, Marilyn. You will always be remembered.
