In the book of Ecclesiastes 3:1-2a, we read, "To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heavens; a time to be born and a time to die.'

On October 24, 2024, Mr. Russell Starr was called to his heavenly home to be with the Lord at 6:06 a.m., where he passed away peacefully at Brightmoor Hospice.

Mr. Russell Starr was born to the late Mr. and Mrs. Leonard (Clara) Starr on November 13, 1936, in Griffin, Georgia. Russell joined the Red Oak United Methodist Church at an early age, where he attended faithfully.

Russell and Mary were united in holy matrimony in 1966, and to this union, they raised five children, Robert, Russell, Jr., Norma, Mary, and Brenda. In his spare time, Russell enjoyed playing softball as a third base catcher with his favorite team, the Giants, who were also his buddies. Oh yes, he thought he was Mr. Big Stuff.

For about thirty years, Russell was a part of his favorite quartet groups, Gospel Crown Sunlighter and the Gospel Deciples. They would perform at various churches and auditoriums throughout the different cities and counties in Georgia, all while praising God. While singing, they lit up the house. Our dad loved life to the fullest, and he definitely loved "God."

In his love for softball, he started a women's softball team called the Spalding Height-Bombers. They won many championships and trophies along the way.

He started his career at the Rushton Cotton Mill and Griffin

by all the kids on bus #13 and later bus #49. In between time, he worked for Spalding Heights apartments as a maintenance worker.

About a year ago, he worked as a school crossing guard until the body got tired.

Russell Starr was preceded in death by his father, Mr. Leonard Starr; mother, Clara Starr; sister, Virginia Ison and Gladys Starr; brothers, Tom (T. P.) Preston Starr, Seaborn Starr, and Grady Starr; his lovely wife, Mary Starr of thirty-seven years; granddaughter, Jessica Starks; grandson, Stewart Green; and nephew Willie (Peashooter) Ison.

He leaves to cherish his loving memories: his children, sons, Robert (Yvonne) Starr Williamson, GA and Russell Starr, Jr. (Terraye), and daughters, Norma Starr of Griffin, GA, and Mary Green and Brenda Lewis, both of Jonesboro, GA; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; a special granddaughter, Latelle Stanford, who was always there along with Hazel and Tommy Ison; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends, and a special first cousin, Marvin Blanton (his best fishing buddy).

To know him was to love him. RIP, Russell Starr.