Willie Starks

  Willie C. Starks 69, of Springfield, Massachusetts passed away on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, in McDonough, Georgia, from a lengthy illness. 

  Willie was born in Springfield to the late Reverend Al J. Starks and Commie T. Starks. He was a graduate of Technical High School class of 1972, where he was an outstanding football quarterback.  He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Columbia University in New York City.

  Willie worked at Consolidated Group for more than 10 years as an Insurance Broker where he excelled as the top broker, winning numerous accolades.  Upon leaving Consolidated Group, Willie worked as a Bank Manager at Wells Fargo Bank.

  Willie had a beautiful smile, infectious laugh and personality.  He took great pride in always looking sharp, being professional, and always eager to share his lengthy opinion and advice. He enjoyed watching his grandsons on the football field and giving them pointers on their positions.  MSNBC and CNN were his pastime favorites to watch when Judge Judy was not on air.

  Willie is survived by his wife, Karla (Triplett) Starks of 30 years;  a daughter, Shamara (Guidry) Walker;  three grandchildren, Jaylen  Parris, Ricardo Walker II, and Nile Walker;  two sisters, Alberta Hunter (and James) and Beatrice Rutherford (and Otis), both of Springfield;  a brother, Al J. Starks Jr (and Doris) of Fort Worth, Texas;  and a host of uncles; aunts, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.  He will be sorely missed by all that knew him.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a,m. Saturday, September 23, 2023, in Oak Grove Cemetery, 426 Bay Street, Springfield, MA.

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