Larry Ray Starkey, 57, of Elliston, was born on September 15, 1959 and went to his heavenly home on June 26, 2017 after a short, but courageous, battle with cancer.
Larry was born and raised in Elliston, Va. He is preceded in death by his father, Robert Starkey Sr.; brothers, Alvin Starkey and Douglas Starkey; sister, Ann Starkey; father in-law, Otis Phillips and best friend, Greg Epperly.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 40 years, Amanda Starkey, who he said was love at first sight; his daughter, Angel Baker and children, Austin and Emma; son and best friend, Brad Starkey and wife Maggie with children, Bradley, Aliya, Chloe and Remi; daughter, Carie Kingery and husband Timmy with children Brookelyn and Brayden; his 93-year-old mother, Ruby Starkey; brother and sister, Robert Starkey Jr., and Ruth Brammer; mother in-law, Doris Phillips and his brother in-laws Allen (Reva) Phillips, Roy (Cindy) Phillips, James (Stephanie) Phillips and David (Wendy) Phillips. Larry is also survived by his lifelong best friend, Carlton “Shorty” Dow who he said was his big brother and someone he could always count on, as well as numerous friends, cousins and nieces and nephews.
Larry was full of life and spent his childhood growing up in Elliston where, at a young age, he met and married his wife, Amanda. They lived a beautiful life together with three children and eight grandchildren. Larry spent his career as a truck driver where he won many awards for his immaculate driving record. He was an outdoorsman and spent his free time hunting and fishing, a talent he would later pass on to his children and grandchildren. He loved his time cruising in his beloved Monte Carlo with his wife, hanging out with his children and grandchildren and making people laugh. Larry had a contagious personality and a smile that could melt you. His heart was truly made of gold and he was loved by many.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff of Lewis-Gale Montgomery and New Century Hospice for their love and care shown during this difficult time. Special thanks to Eddie Redd, Bill Ryan and all of the volunteers who assisted with the cemetery, as well as those that provided meals and a helping hand during his final days.
Funeral services will be conducted today at 11 a.m. in the Seneca Baptist Church with the Rev. John Collins officiating. Interment will follow in the Big Walnut Cemetery. Friends may call anytime after 4:00 pm at Seneca Baptist Church, Elliston, and the family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m.
Friday evening at the church. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the family to offset expenses. Arrangements by McCoy Funeral Home, Blacksburg.
