Jo Lynn Starks

JoLynn Starks, lovingly known as “Nanny” to those who adored her, passed away unexpectedly on June 28, 2026, at the age of 70.

Born on October 18, 1955, in Lewiston, Maine, JoLynn was raised in Auburn and graduated from Edward Little High School with the Class of 1974.

JoLynn was preceded in death by her parents, Carolyn Elaine Clark and Alfred Joseph Clark Jr.; her beloved life partner, Kenny Underwood; her brother, Alan Clark, and his wife, Patricia Clark; and two precious grandchildren, Aiden and Micaela.

She leaves behind her loving life partner, Paul Mcinnis; her devoted sons, Demetrius Starks and his wife, Jessica Starks, and Anthony Clark and his wife, Jennifer Clark. She is also survived by her sister, Sharon St. Germain and her husband, David St. Germain; her brother, John Clark and his wife, Louise Clark; her grandchildren, Teneyce, Demyah, Julian, Alayna, Majesta, Tiannah, Autumn, Jazzlynn, Daelyn, Nathan, Paisley, and Anthony; her great-grandchildren, Royal, Haisleigh and Braylen; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss her.

JoLynn found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved spending days at the beach, tending to her garden, and, above all else, spending time with her family—especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also shared a special bond with her beloved cat, Marvin.

Anyone who knew JoLynn knew that her kitchen was a place of comfort and creativity. She had an incredible talent for cooking delicious meals without ever needing a recipe. Whether every dish turned out perfectly or not, there was always laughter, love, and a story to tell.

One of JoLynn’s greatest gifts was her ability to strike up a conversation with just about anyone. She never met a stranger for long. Whether she was standing in line at the grocery store, spending a day at the beach, or out running errands, she could effortlessly start a conversation and often left people smiling. Her outgoing personality, quick wit, and sense of humor made every encounter memorable.

Time spent with Nanny was never ordinary. Every visit was an adventure, filled with laughter, unexpected moments, and memories that her family will treasure forever.

More than anything, JoLynn fiercely loved her family. She was incredibly proud of her sons and often spoke about the wonderful people they had become. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of her life, and nothing brought her more happiness than spending time with them. Her love was unconditional, and she never missed an opportunity to let them know how proud she was.

A memorial service celebrating JoLynn’s life will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 11am, at Pathway Vineyard Church in Lewiston. Family and friends are invited to a reception immediately following the service at 4 Bluff Drive, Turner, Maine, where everyone is welcome to gather, share stories, laugh together, and remember the many ways JoLynn touched their lives.

A private family gathering will be held at a later date for the placement of her ashes at Gracelawn Cemetery in Auburn.

JoLynn will be remembered for her laughter, her gift of conversation, her adventurous spirit, and, most importantly, the deep love she had for her family. Though she will be greatly missed, the memories she created and the love she shared will remain in the hearts of those who knew her forever.