Sidney Eugene Starkey

Sidney Eugene Starkey "Rockin Sid the Pumpkin Center Kid," was called home to his Heavenly Father, surrounded by his loving family, on August 6, 2021 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was blessed to meet the love of his life, Betty Ann Starkey, and blend their families through a marriage lasting 37 years, and a friendship even longer. Their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren have been so fortunate to witness their love and faith through the years. Sid always spoke with great pride about his loving bride and how fortunate he was to be blessed with her in his life, and his dance card will always only hold her name as he waits to dance with her again. Sid prided himself on cooking a good meal for his family and coworkers through the years. His Sauce Piquant was second to none and the care he put into his love of Louisiana cuisine will be missed by all who cherish him. One of Sid’s greatest passions in life was his faith and his fellowship with his church family which brought him great joy and solace. He could often be found writing a swift poem filled with compassion, quiet observation, and love. When he learned of someone hurting or facing a difficulty, words were the gift he could provide. This was not a gift of pride, but a way he could show love and kindness to others. As a young man Sid had a love for tall ships. Their beauty in the open water captured his imagination, and we like to think that today, as he sets sail on his next chapter in the universe, he can feel the breeze on his face and know how much his family loves him. We are so thankful for his faith and kindness, and for all of those who loved him with us. The family wishes to thank everyone that provided food and the loving thoughts and prayers from family and friends, who have truly been a blessing. We would also like to express our endless gratitude to all of the faculty and staff of the Tulane Cancer Center and Bone Marrow Unit for their very loving care.

Sidney is survived by his wife of 37 years, Betty Shelton Starkey; his children, Lecia and Mike White, Kimberly and Brian Cannon, Shawn Palmer, Leslie Golden, Michael and Dawn Starkey and Myron Cook; sister, Charlene Schilling; brother, John Starkey; grandchildren, Katelyn, Ryan, Krystal, Tiffany, Dustin, Tanner, Paige, Isabel, Kodi, Chad, Savannah and Sydney; great-grandchildren, Paislee, Jenson, Lakyn, Laine, Ryver, Dawson, Cohen, Brantley, Axel, Cole, Josie, Wyatt and Blake.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Newton Starkey and Guessner Carpenter Starkey; sisters, Gaye Starkey Baird and Andrea Niersthemier; brother, William "Rip" Starkey.

Family and friends will be received at Jerusalem Baptist Church, 11109 Jerusalem Church Rd., Pumpkin Center, Louisiana 70454 on Sunday, August 8, 2021 from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm. Visitation will continue at Jerusalem Baptist Church on Monday, August 9, 2021 from 8:00am  10:00am.

A Funeral Service will be held at Jerusalem Baptist Church on Monday at 10:00am with Pastor Phil Weaver officiating.

Interment will follow at Jerusalem Baptist Church Cemetery in Pumpkin Center, Louisiana.

Donations may be made to The Gideons International at www.sendtheword.org.

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