Billy Don Starling

Billy Don Starling, 83, of Paragould, formerly of Forrest City passed away Tuesday, February 8, 2022. He was born in Imboden on January 11, 1939. Bill graduated from Pocahontas High School in 1957. After graduation he earned his BSE in 1963 and his MSE from Arkansas State University where he met his wife. He married his bride, Cynthia Graham, on June 2, 1962. He taught at Forrest City Junior High for several years. He became the Assistant Principal before switching his professional career. Bill became the local manager of the Employment Security Division in Forrest City and then the regional manager. He retired in 2000. He was active in the United Methodist Church in Forrest City. He served on the church board and the Board of Trustees. Bill was in Lions Club and served as President of the organization. He also refereed high school football for 25 years. In his spare time, Bill loved to golf. He was very meticulous when it came to caring for his lawn. He also loved his ArmorAll and cleaning his cars. Bill was the son of the late Lucian Glen and Lena Arlene Horsman Starling. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Herman; brother-in-law, Frank Graham; and grandson, Colby Kelley Starling.

Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Cynthia Starling; sons, Graham and Greg (Gina) Starling, both of Paragould; daughter, Betsy (Heath) Long of Tichnor, Arkansas; grandchildren, Chandler and Grayson Starling of Jonesboro, Carter and Ella Starling of Paragould, and Shelby and Sydney Long of Tichnor; sister, Joyce Graham of Pocahontas; and niece, Charlotte Graham of Memphis.

A graveside funeral will be Saturday at 11am at Oaklawn Cemetery in Jonesboro under the direction of Heath Funeral Home. Pallbearers are Heath Long and Greg, Graham, Carter, Chandler, and Grayson Starling. Honorary pallbearers are Mike and Trent Graham.