Geneva Evelyn Starkes

Geneva Evelyn (Mills) Starkes, age 96, of Greenville, TX, peacefully went into the arms of her Savior on May 22, 2024.  She was a beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, teacher and friend and was affectionately known as “Mama Gene” to all who were close to her.  She was a person who loved the Lord, her family, church and career as a teacher, for over 35 years. 

Geneva was born on January 5, 1928 to Daisy (McClain) Mills and Oscar Mills, in Mount Pleasant, Texas.  

She  met the love of her life, Maurice Chappell Starkes  and they were married on April 16, 1949.  Geneva and Maurice had 3 children, who loved them both dearly.  

Geneva  graduated with her Bachelor's degree in Home Economics and Business,  and Master’s degree in Business, Elementary Education and Home Economics, from East Texas State College

With a teaching career spanning over 35 years,  Geneva  taught school in Bailey and Greenville, Texas, where she made a tremendous impact in the lives of students. She was passionate about enabling youth, as well as adults, in obtaining skills to better themselves and their families.  She received multiple awards and commendations including the “Business Teacher of the Year Award” during her years of teaching.  

In her spare time, Geneva enjoyed traveling across the United States in the summer,  with her family.  She also enjoyed gardening, puzzles, driving her mustang, game nights with friends, singing/teaching Sunday School and spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.    

Geneva is proceed in death by her Husband of 41 years, Maurice Chappell Starkes;  her mother, Daisy Margaret, Eloise (McClain) Mills; her Father, Oscar Mills; her sister, Virgie (Mills) Goodwin White and two brothers, Jody Mills and RL Mills

Geneva is survived by her sons, Vann Maurice Starkes and wife, Kathy, of Austin, TX Phillip Keith Starkes, of Greenville, TX,  daughter Sheri Sue (Starkes) Ratley and husband Chris of Jonesboro, AR

Grandchildren, Michael Starkes and wife, Kate of Austin, TX; Keith Starkes and wife, Alison of Farmersville, TX; Philip Starkes of Commerce TX; Lora (Starkes) Davis and husband Dustin of Cumby, TX; Katelyn (Ratley) Paxson and husband Bryce of Jonesboro, AR; Hailey Ratley of Jonesboro, AR and Reagan Ratley of Jonesboro, AR,  as well as seven precious  great-grandchildren, who were loved dearly, by Geneva.  

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