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Minneapolis community remembers John Turnipseed

The former gang member who became an inspirational community leader died this week, according to social media reports.

MINNEAPOLIS — Minneapolis community members are sharing an outpouring of love and sympathy following social media reports of the death of inspiring community leader John Turnipseed.

"Rest in heaven John Turnipseed," Lisa Clemons, founder of "A Mother's Love," wrote on Facebook. "My prayers to the family of an amazing man."

Turnipseed served as director of The Center for Fathering and as a vice president for Urban Ventures, an organization that offers support to children and families in underserved neighborhoods.

Turnipseed openly shared his own inspiring life story in speaking engagements and on his website, as a self-described "former gang leader, pimp and drug dealer who spent his childhood battling demons brought on by a volatile, abusive father," who became a "community leader, pastor (and) speaker." 

"His story powerfully demonstrates how faith, hope, and forgiveness backed up by persevering mentors and role models are essential for real and relevant transformation," Turnipseed's website described.

Turnipseed was also a key figure in the recovery of Lake Street businesses damaged by the unrest following the murder of George Floyd. KARE 11 spoke to him in 2020 about Urban Ventures' work to distribute funds to affected businesses.

John Turnipseed's life was the subject of films, and he also wrote a book about his life's transformation.

One of our favorite photos of John Turnipseed, contemplating his legacy on the film set of "Turnipseed Legacy". John's...

Posted by Five Stone Media on Wednesday, November 23, 2022

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