James Newell Starkey, Jr.

James Newell Starkey, Jr. (Jamie), passed away very unexpectedly in his home on Tuesday, November 20, 2018.

Jamie was born to Mary Frances and James Starkey Sr. in Bay City, TX, on November 16, 1964. The family moved to Cleveland, TX the following year. He started school at Southside Elementary. The many friends he made there would prove to be lifelong friends.

Jamie loved the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and hunter. He spoke of getting off the school bus on many Friday afternoons and Pops would be waiting there, with the truck loaded and ready to roll! Jamie cherished these times with Pops and his mom and family.

In high school, Jamie was involved in FFA and played football. His parents never missed a game!

He could also tell a few stories of the many shenanigans with Niki, or David King, or Todd Ott, or the Langs, or his cousin Greg!!

In September, 1984, Jamie joined, as he called it, The World’s Finest Nuclear-Powered Navy. Jamie would tell you that he traveled all the way around this planet, the slow way, on an air craft carrier. He loved his Navy. He loved his country.

At some point, this young man from a small town in Texas, decided to make the United States Navy his career. He worked hard and rose through the ranks and to become a Chief Petty Officer.

On September 30, 2004 he retired from the Navy. An American flag was flown over the Alamo on this day in honor of Jamie.

Once back home Jamie went to work for Continental Airlines. He recently retired from Baker Hughes, in the Woodlands. Since retirement he has enjoyed fishing with friends and spending time with his grandson, Nick. Jamie was also a member of Tarkington Prairie Masonic Lodge #498 in Cleveland.

Anyone who knew Jamie would tell you how kind and generous he was. He never knew a stranger, but would often help one.

Jamie is survived by his mother, Mary Frances Starkey; daughter, Emily Starkey Branshaw; sisters, Sharon Plant Huey, Vanessa Starkey Patterson and husband Henry; brother, Robert Joseph (Bobby) Plant; grandchild, Nichalas Diego Burciaga; childhood friend and soulmate, Jacy Barrow Rush; many navy brothers, loving family members and friends.

Fair winds and following seas Chief….

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 28, 2018 at Pace Stancil Chapel, Cleveland, Texas. Services will be 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 28, 2018 at Pace Stancil Chapel, Cleveland, Texas. Interment will follow at Pace Stancil Memorial Rest Gardens, Cleveland, Texas.