Jerry R. Starkes

Jerry R. Starkes of Lubbock was promoted to Glory on Sunday, July 28, 2013 at the age of 69 after battling cancer since 2002.  He was born November 7, 1943 in Texarkana, Texas moving to Lubbock in 1958.  He graduated from Monterey High School in 1962 and received his Bachelors of Music Education from Texas Tech University in 1966 and his Masters Degree in Music Education in 1968.  Jerry was a band director for a total of 14 years, spending the last 10 years of teaching at Lubbock High School.  He changed careers in 1981 when he went to work at Music Education Support with Jents House of Music and his dear friends, Ray and Mickey Jent.  He worked with Jents for 27 years.  In 2008, he was given the opportunity by Tarpley Music to continue working with relationships he had developed over the decades and to encourage people (young and old) how to enjoy and learn more about this gift of music.  The family’s deepest gratitude goes to the owners and staff of Tarpley Music Company.  Jerry was a member of Trinity Church for over 20 years and played in the Trinity Orchestra until it disbanded several years ago.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 21 years, Terica (Reasoner) Starkes; daughters, Christie L. Goodman of San Antonio and Stacy L. Starkes of Ft. Worth; step-daughter, Patti Weaver of Lubbock; son-in-law, Paul A. Goodman and two granddaughters, Kayla Shea and Leslie Nicole Goodman, all of San Antonio; as well as sisters-in-law, cousins, nephews, nieces, and a host of colleagues and friends.  Jerry also leaves behind his furry companions, Jubal, Emma Jane, and Boss who will miss him too!

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse T. and Thelma W. Starkes, and his older brother, M. Thomas (Bro. T) Starkes.

The family will receive friends 6:00-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 30, 2013 at Combest Family Funeral Homes.  Graveside services are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 31, 2013 at the City of Lubbock Cemetery with celebration services to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Church.

Memorials can be made to Hospice of Lubbock, 3702 21^st Street, Lubbock, TX 79401; Trinity Church (Beyond), 7002 Canton  Ave., Lubbock, TX 79413; or Westwinds Brass Band, c/o Mr. Phil Anthony, 3708 97^th Street, Lubbock, TX 79423.

Please celebrate the life of Jerry by visiting www.combestfamilyfuneralhomes.com.