On Friday, January 14, 2022, God, in his infinite wisdom, called William Anthony Starkie, 68, of Washington Road, Martinsville, VA home from his labor to reward. He was born November 17, 1953, in Martinsville, VA to the late William Henry Starkie and Bessie Waller Starkie. He was preceded in death by one sister, Wanda Starkie and one brother, Gregory Starkie. William was known as Bird to his family and friends. He grew up in Fieldale Hollow and attended Carver High School. William accepted Christ at an early age and later rededicated his life. He was a member of Meadow View AME Church. William worked in the textile industry and was a jack of all trades. He loved helping his community, he had a heart of help. He enjoyed getting together for family breakfast and enjoyed being with his family.

Those left to cherish his memories are: his mother, Bessie Starkie of Martinsville, VA; three sisters Gwendolyn Cheatham (Phillip) King, Exhorter Octavia (Donnie) Witcher, Ponjolia Starkie all of Martinsville, VA and Nellie Jones of Washington NC; one brother Geoffrey Starkie of the home; one uncle William (Trigger) Hairston of Stoneville, NC; one aunt Ruth Gorham of Washington, NC; a special aunt Hortensia Washington of the home and a special daughter Tanelle (Arshay) Jefferson of Martinsville, VA and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A funeral service for William will be held Wednesday, January 26, 2022, at 11 a.m. at the C.R.V. Hairston Memorial Chapel. A public viewing will he held Tuesday, January 25, 2022, from 1 p.m. until 5p.m. The family will be receiving friends at 154 Washington Rd, Martinsville, VA all other times. In accordance with the CDC a face covering, and social distancing will be required.

To view a live stream the service, go to the Hairston Funeral Home Facebook page and click on the service.