Tony Lavern Starkey of Southside, AL passed on December 13, 2025, at the age of 78.He was born on May 5, 1947, in Farina, IL, the son of Floyd G. and Moine L. (Allen) Starkey. Tony married Myra D. Batley on November 27, 1970 in Carbondale, IL.
Tony graduated from Effingham High School in Effingham, IL. He then graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL. He worked as a Human Resource Manager for over thirty years at Dana Corporation, C&F
Stamping, Vetter Corporation, and Solo Cup Company. He served in the US Army from 1967-1969, including service in Vietnam.
Tony enjoyed classic cars, southern gospel music, and being a Papaw to his grandchildren. He was an active member and servant in multiple churches throughout his years, including being a Southern Baptist deacon for over forty-five years. He was
also an active servant at various community organizations throughout his life in Illinois, Kentucky, and Alabama. More than anything, Tony loved his family, he loved his faith,
and he loved his friends. Just as he wanted, he was surrounded by his family as he passed into the presence of God.
Tony was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Robert (Ann) Starkey.
Tony is survived by his wife of fifty-five years, Myra Starkey; sons Shea (Karen) Starkey of Rainbow City, AL, and Sean (Jacqueline) Starkey of Ellerslie, GA; grandchildren, Ben, Jenna, Elijah, Makayla, Lily, and Ethan Starkey; siblings, Richard (Marlyn Sue), Darrel (Liz), Carrel (Marsha) Starkey, and Janette (Dan) Bledsoe; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am on April 18, 2026, at First Baptist Church Southside, 2560 Mountain View Drive, Southside, AL 35907. Everyone who knew him and loved him is invited to attend.
