Terry Willis Starnes

1969 - 2025

Terry Willis Starnes

Born: March 24, 1969 | Died: May 17, 2025

Terry Willis Starnes, 56, of Greeneville, TN, passed away on May 17, 2025. Born on March 24, 1969, Terry was known for his quick wit and playful spirit, which ensured there was never a dull moment in his presence. He had an uncanny ability to find humor in everyday situations and cherished bringing joy to others through his laughter.

Terry is survived by his mother, Jo-Ann Bowers; sisters, Patricia Baskett and BJ Brantly along with her husband Philip; children, Trista Starnes Hurd, Cathryn Starnes Snider and her husband Brandon, Faith Yokely, and Tommy Starnes with his wife Becky Lillie Starnes. He also leaves behind his nephews Bradley Foulks, Daniel Reaves, Scott Lowe; nieces Whitnie Tunnell, Casey Morelock, Jodie Lamb, Amber Baskett, Taylor Peters, Autumn Taylor; and six deeply loved grandchildren. And his special little buddy Waylon. He was preceded in death by his father, Willis Starnes, and sisters, Annita Tunnell and Cindy Reaves.

Terry was a devout member of the College Hills Church of Christ in Nashville, TN, where he found great solace and community. His hobbies included fishing, talking about God, fixing cars, and listening to bedtime stories with his grandchildren, which brought him immense joy and fulfillment.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 30th, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Salem Church, located at 1890 Lost Mountain Pike, Greeneville, TN. The service will be conducted by the two men Terry called "his heros" his son-in-law, Brandon Snider, and the man who baptized Terry last year Pastor Kevin Owen of College Hills Church of Christ.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to True Purpose Ministries in Maryville, Tennessee, in memory of Terry. His legacy of laughter and love will forever resonate with those who were fortunate to know him.