Margaret Mary Starr

Born on May 29, 1922, in Augusta, Georgia, Peggy was the cherished daughter of Frank Carswell Bussey and Catherine Lawrence Bussey. She grew up in Atlanta and graduated from Sacred Heart High School, where she formed enduring friendships and a love of learning that would shape her life and work.

In 1944, Peggy married the love of her life, David Homer Starr Jr. Together they built a warm and lively home filled with laughter, devotion, and deep-rooted values. Their enduring partnership was blessed with eight children: Rev. David H. Starr III (Shelley) of Monterey, California; Brian Lawrence Starr (Sally) of Big Canoe, Georgia; John H. Starr (Elizabeth) of Saint Simons Island, Georgia; Peggy Lambert (Michael) of Atlanta, Georgia; Rev. Chris Starr (Kathy) of Decatur, Georgia; Robert Dean Starr (Amy) of Saint Simons Island, Georgia; Peter C. Starr of Marietta, Georgia; and Philip G. Starr of Houston, Texas.

Peggy began her career at IBM following high school, demonstrating diligence and intellect in an era when such paths were rare for women. Later, she found great purpose in her work at Northside High School’s guidance office in Atlanta, where she became a trusted confidante to students and colleagues alike.

Peggy was a lifelong member of the Cathedral of Christ the King in Atlanta and Saint William’s Church on Saint Simons Island.

A woman of grace, quiet strength, and generous spirit, Peggy was admired for her unwavering faith, thoughtful wisdom, and deep commitment to her family. She was the proud matriarch of a large and loving family, including 22 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren. Peggy was also the last of the Bussey Girls, predeceased by her cherished sisters: Catherine Austin, Frances Hynes, and Noel Murray.

She will be remembered for her gentle humor, impeccable sense of fairness, and her ability to make others feel seen, heard and loved.

A celebration of Peggy’s life is planned for the fall on Saint Simons Island, where her family and friends will gather to honor her remarkable legacy and the lasting impact she had on those who knew her.