Michel “Marty” Turpeau, influential figure in Atlanta’s economic development, passes away

Michel “Marty” Turpeau, a prominent business executive and influential figure in Atlanta’s economic development, passed away on December 23 after a brief illness. Born into a family deeply connected to Atlanta’s political scene, Turpeau, 55, served as the chairman of the Development Authority of Fulton County and had a significant impact on the city’s civic boards.

Hailing from a family associated with Mayors Maynard Jackson and Andrew Young, Turpeau’s father, Aaron Turpeau Sr., played a key role in the city’s political landscape. The Turpeau family, in collaboration with baseball legend Hank Aaron, founded The Aaron Group, a parking and transit solutions company that Michel Turpeau eventually led as president.

Karen Snell, his partner of nearly 13 years, described Turpeau as a man with boundless energy and dedication to his hometown. Turpeau was known for his strategic thinking and forward-looking approach. His educational background included an undergraduate degree from Morehouse College and a master’s in finance from Clark Atlanta University. Turpeau was appointed to the DAFC (Development Authority of Fulton County) board in 2017 and later became chairman. For a period, he also served as Executive Director.

State Sen. Brandon Beach, the authority’s vice chair, will assume the chair’s responsibilities until a new leader is appointed.

Turpeau is survived by his parents, son Mickey Turpeau, brother Aaron Turpeau Jr., sister Dr. Alem Desta Turpeau, and partner Karen Snell, along with her three children and a grandson. A memorial service is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Friday at Morehouse College’s Massey Leadership Center.