Richard George Starkey Jr.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Richard (Rick) Starkey, Jr., aged 70. Rick was born in northern central Florida and relocated to Jacksonville, Florida at four months old, where he lived through the end of his life. Rick met the Lord on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 with his wife beside him. He is survived by his wife Elizabeth Starkey, stepchildren Aaron (Savannah) Bishop and Sarah (Hiatt) Woods, parents Richard and Marlene Starkey, his beloved sister-in-law Michele Starkey, nephews Gary Jr. and David Starkey, and many cousins and grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his brother Gary Starkey and stepdaughter Stacey Munley.

Rick enjoyed a full life in Jacksonville, graduating from Terry Parker High School in 1971 as an active participant of Omega Phi and many sports and activities. He famously participated in the building of the “senior wall” in 1970-1971, with tall tales on what originated his participation. He was a charismatic and well-loved figure at school. He continued his education as Florida State University on a football scholarship, which ended after an injury.

Returning to Jacksonville, his life was full of service to the community and time well spent with friends. He was active in his church community, and played softball with Riverside Primitive Baptist, was in the bowling league with Southside Auto, and raced cars with Jacksonville Automotive. He married Elizabeth Wild in 1998 at Arlington Christian Church, which is where they met. They were both active in the church, as well as the Emmaus community and East Pointe Church’s Bible study. His greatest joys were in spending time serving his community, laughing with friends, sitting by the water and fishing with family, and watching his grandchildren grow and play.

His career as a master automotive mechanic allowed him to keep up with the intricate engineering of cars and solve problems for his friends. He retired in 2011 due to his health, but continued to provide advice and assistance for anyone that called.

His impact has been felt by everyone that met him on his journey, from his youth to his last days. He will always be remembered as a caring, insightful, hilarious, and generous spirit who loved his friends, family, and God. He will be dearly missed.

A service will be held in his honor on November 28, 2023 from 2:00-4:00pm at East Pointe Church, 270 Kernan Boulevard, Jacksonville, Florida 32225. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Kidney Fund.