Dr. Donald Leroy Starkey

Dr. Donald Leroy Starkey was born on September 11, 1930, in Wayzata, Minnesota, to parents Roy and Viola Starkey. He passed away on July 20, 2026. His parents owned and operated a general store as well as managing their farm. Don learned many skills and a strong work ethic that that served him well throughout his 95 years of life. He met Doris Dewey while attending LaSierra University in Riverside, California, and it was love at first sight. Within 19 days, they were engaged and married six months later. Together, they had four children and were married for 69 years until her death in June 2024. They were faithful members of the Calhoun Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Don is survived by his sons Dennis (Tami) Starkey of Mills River, North Carolina, David (Kay) Starkey of Dayton, Ohio, Darrel (Connie) Starkey of Calhoun, Georgia, and Donna (Tony) Baumann of Calhoun, Georgia. He is also survived by six grandchildren and their spouses, seven great-grandchildren, and loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Doris Starkey.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. The family would like to thank the many medical professionals involved in Dad’s care over the last few months, including two special caregivers, Trish and Elvira, and the AdventHealth Gordon team.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Don and Doris Starkey Scholarship Fund through Georgia-Cumberland Academy in Calhoun, Georgia.

You may leave the family online condolences at www.thomasfuneralhomecalhoun.com 

Thomas Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.