Jim Starr

Jim D. Starr passed away on May 27, 2026 at the age of 88. Jim was born to Richard Eugene Starr and Beulah Mae (Miller) Starr in Denton County, Texas on August 2, 1937.

He is survived by his daughter Julie A. Starr of North Richland Hills, Texas, son Bret W. Starr and his wife Beverly E. (Weaver) Starr of Hurst, Texas, their daughter Rebecca L. Starr of Dallas, Texas, his brother-in-law Jim Rogers of Midland, Texas, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his wife of fifty-seven years Sally A. (Rinaman) Starr, his brother Brady Starr (Geneva) of Aubrey, Texas, and sisters Mozelle Cash (Ross) of Lubbock, Texas, Johnnie Cash (Dee) of Crosbyton, Texas, Mary Wright (Bill) of Ralls, Texas, and Martha Rogers (Jim) of Midland, Texas.

Jim’s life was dedicated to public service. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Government and Economics in 1960 from The University of North Texas (UNT) and was the first graduate of what would become the University of North Texas’ Master of Public Administration Program in 1962 with a Master’s Degree in Municipal Management. After graduation, Jim worked as an Assistant City Manager for Irving, Texas for six years, served as Deputy Executive Director for the North Central Texas Council of Governments for ten years, and was the City Manager of Hurst, Texas for sixteen years.

He was involved in many civic and professional activities. He served on the board of directors for the Texas City Management Association, including a term as President from 1992-93. He also served as board member and president of the North Texas City Management Association. He was appointed by the Governor of Texas to serve on the board and as president of the Texas Municipal Retirement System.

Jim served on the UNT Alumni board of directors and was President of the North Texas Exes in 2001. He was recognized as a Selected Outstanding Alumni of the UNT Public Administration Program in 1997, and received the UNT Outstanding Alumni Service Award in 2004.

Jim was an avid golfer and collected antique golf clubs. He was a lifelong member of Sigma Nu fraternity. He was also an active member of St. Philip Presbyterian Church, serving as a deacon, was on the building committee, and on a pastoral search committee.

A memorial service and reception will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at St. Philip Presbyterian Church, located at 745 W. Pipeline Road, Hurst, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children or the American Parkinson Disease Association.