Joey Lee Blackburn Starnes

JOEY LEE BLACKBURN STARNES passed away April 14, 2014 in Memphis at Methodist LeBonheur Germantown Hospital. Joey was a 13 year student of Harding Academy, where she was a cheerleader and a 1988 graduate. She was a dance student at Peggy Holden Armstrong School of Dance and Performing Arts of Germantown. Later, she was a judge at Mid-South Fair Youth Talent. She attended the University of Memphis, where she earned a Bachelor of Art Degree. Later, she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from the American Intercontinental University where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Joey was Methodist University Hospital’s 44th heart transplant recipient and later employed by this hospital. Joey and family would like to thank the hospital and transplant team for giving her the 24 extra years of life. Joey was always grateful for their care, love and support. Michael Starnes, Joey’s husband, loved and cared for Joey her last 12 years. Joey is survived by her husband, Michael Starnes of Olive Branch, MS; her mother, Shirley Blackburn Barker of Arlington, TN; brother, Rick Blackburn of Oakland, TN, and numerous family members who loved her very much. She was preceded in death by her father, S.O. Blackburn of Germantown, TN. A Celebration of Joey’s life will be today at 12 noon at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 N. Germantown Rd. Friends will gather beginning at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Memorial Gardens. Online condolences may be made at www.memphisfuneralhome.net