James Luther Turner (February 28, 1891 – April 19, 1964) was an American businessperson. He was the founder of J.L. Turner and Son, the predecessor of Dollar General.[1]
Early life
James Turner was born on February 28, 1891, to Johnnie and Nancy Turner. His father died in an accident in 1902, resulting in Turner leaving school and finding a job. Turner never returned to school, and did not learn how to read.[2]
Career
Turner married in 1908 to Josephine Marcum. He decided to get into retail by opening a bridle shop with Josephine. After a year, the pair sold the bridle shop and moved to Kentucky where he opened a country store. After four years the country store closed. After his country store closed down, Turner worked as a salesman for a wholesale grocery company and then a dry goods retailer in Nashville.[3]