Dale Richard Starr

Born in Noble County, Ohio, Dale grew up working on the family farm and carried those early lessons of discipline, humility, and service throughout his life. A 1956 graduate of Batesville High School, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Harding University in 1960, followed by a Master’s in Biology from The Ohio State University in 1962. Dale began his career as a teacher with the Westerville City Schools before transitioning into data analysis with Anchor Hocking in Lancaster. He retired from Anchor Hocking after 31 years and continued to share his computer expertise at South Central Power and later through his work in the IT department of the Lancaster City Schools.

Dale was married to his beloved wife, Lylan (Garrett) Starr, for 65 years—a partnership marked by devotion, faith, and a shared commitment to serving others. He loved golf and had a passion for photography. He became well known in the community for capturing sporting and band events, generously sharing hundreds, if not thousands, of photos with high school students and families over the years.

Dale’s faith was the foundation of his life. A dedicated member of the Church of Christ, he served as a preacher, elder, song leader, and Bible school teacher. He rarely missed an opportunity to study or teach the Bible, and he lived out his beliefs with quiet consistency. Dale exemplified hope—even in the most difficult moments of his illness, he looked outward, always searching for ways to help others.

He is survived by his wife Lylan Starr; his children Kevin (Kim) Starr, Karen (Keith) Ward, and Karla Young; his grandchildren Kayla (Peyton) Randolph, Kameron (Mariah) Starr, Colten (Kayty) Schooley, Sydney Ward, Carson Ward, Bryce Young, and Avery Young; his great-grandchildren Annabelle Starr, Dean Starr, Lyla Starr, Van Randolph, Eleanor Randolph, Brady Schooley, Baker Schooley, and Burrow Schooley; and his brother Dan Starr. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Mabel Starr, as well as his brother, Dean Starr and his sister, Nancy Yoder.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00pm on Friday, May 15 at Halteman Fett & Dyer Funeral Home in Lancaster, Ohio with visitation from 10:00am-1:00pm. Dale’s son, Kevin Starr, will be officiating. Burial will take place at Floral Hills Memory Gardens with a private family event.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Summit Home Care and Hospice, 800 Yard Street Suite 300, Grandview Heights, Ohio 43212. The family would like to thank the staff at both Summit and Primrose, as they provided wonderful care and kindness during this time.