FMU unveils park honoring slain officer
Francis Marion University unveiled a new park on campus in honor of the late Farrah “Maxine” Turner last week.
Turner, a 2005 graduate of the university, was an investigator with the Florence County Sheriff’s Office.
She was shot during the Oct. 3 law enforcement shooting tragedy in Florence, and she died later from injuries sustained.
A Darlington resident, Sgt. Terrence Carraway, also died in the incident.
Turner Park, situated among the Forest villa residential apartments on the University’s campus, is a picturesque and intimate space that includes a fountain, benches, darting trails and various flowers and plants.
The creation of Turner Park was approved by the Francis Marion University Board of Trustees during their November meeting.
Francis Marion University President Fred Carter said the park is a fitting tribute to a person who was the embodiment of public service.
Linda Goodwin Weaver, Farrah’s aunt, said the park’s dedication personifies the close ties the family has with Francis Marion.
“Farrah loved this university. Our family had no home university, so Francis Marion became our university and Farrah has inspired so many in our family to come here,” Goodwin Weaver said.