Michael Anthony Starr

Michael “Mike” Anthony Starr, 62, of Stafford, Virginia, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2020. Mike was born October 27, 1958, in Wilmington, North Carolina. He was raised by his mother, Gloria (Foye) Jackson and his stepfather Sam W. Starr. Michael’s early years were spent growing up in Newport News and Hampton, VA. Mike’s fondest memories were spending his summer breaks in Winnibow, NC working on his grandparents’ farm, along with his brothers and cousins. On the farm, everyone was up early to start the day (a habit he would maintain for a lifetime). The summer of ’72, Mike left for Germany to fulfill his obligation as an "Army Brat". Mike and family eventually landed in Benjamin Franklin Village (BFV), Mannheim, Germany, also known as Bison Country. His peers coined the nickname, “Shining Starr”, referencing a song from his favorite band, Earth, Wind and Fire. The nickname stuck as he became a standout track star. He would recount stories of how these friends made the best of life hanging out together and Mike was always in the center of the fun! Mike graduated from MAHS in 1976. Mike’s High School quote was: "I am what I want of me, not what people try to make of me." - He always remained true to himself and followed his own unique drum. Returning to the states, Mike worked as a chef at an upscale restaurant, where he acquired his cooking skills which would remain a point of pride for himself. He then enlisted in the Army serving from 1983 – 1987, assigned to Military Intelligence in Ft. Bliss, TX and Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. After his honorable discharge, he moved to Northern, VA and worked for DC Department of Corrections. He was quickly promoted and selected to an administrative role, where he exceled. He attended Strayer College earning a certification as an Information System Security Officer, which lead to a long-term and rewarding IT career. The summer of 1993 Mike met Artina (Tina). His sincere, loving, and caring personality quickly won over his wife’s heart, and her entire family. Mike and Tina married on May 10th, 1997, and established a home in Stafford VA. Michael was a devoted husband, a dedicated son, brother, stepfather, uncle, godfather, and friend. He loved nothing more than spending time with his family, which included his beloved “Bison Friends.” Michael was well loved and had a profound impact on so many lives. Mike is survived by his devoted wife, Artina Anderson-Starr; his loving mother, Gloria Jackson; his stepfather, Sam W. Starr; his four stepchildren, Dontae, Shontae, Robert and Reginald Anderson; his four step grandchildren; his two sisters, Sandra (Bob) Keller and Tamara Starr; his two brothers, Reginald (Lisa) Starr and William (Fredricka) Brown; his sisters-in-law, Elouise Starr, Wanda Woodard, Gwyn (Roger) Gardner, and Carolyn Parker; his nieces Symara Woodard, Karin, Tianna (Jeffery) Greene, Naomi, and Lauren; his nephews, Lyron Woodard, Lynard Parker, Lawrence Jr., Reginald, Jr., Brandon, and Justin; as well a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, great nephews, and other extended family members. The special light that radiated from Mike "The Shining Starr” will truly be missed. The family will receive friends 10:00 to 11:00am Saturday, November 21, 2020 at Mullins & Thompson Funeral Service, Stafford, VA where funeral services will be held at 11:00am. Interment will be held 11:00am Monday, November 23, 2020 in Quantico National Cemetery The family request "In Lieu of Flowers” please make donations to your favorite charity. Live streaming link: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=735197346838735&ref=content_filter