Barbara Jo Starkey

Barbara Jo Starkey, age 83, passed away on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at Grove Nursing Center, Grove, OK, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on April 8, 1942 in Ferron, Utah to her parents, Beulah and David Melrose Bohleen.

Barbara married her soulmate Ronald Starkey in November of 1974. Barbara started truck driving in the early 80's traveling all over the United States and lower Canada before making her home in Grove, Oklahoma. She drove until her knees gave out. She would still be driving truck if not for that. Barbara enjoyed crocheting and sewing. She made many of the wedding dresses for the girls. After Ron passed away, her health started deteriorating and she moved in with Dave and JoQuita, so JoQuita could over see her care. She lived with them for five years until April then went into long-term care. JoQuita continued to oversee her care while she was in long-term care.

Thank you to Good Shepherd Hospice for all the extra care they provided.

Barbara is preceded in death by her parents Beulah and David Bohleen; Brother Melvin Bohleen; her husband Ronald Starkey; Brother-In-law Calvin Bastian and Sister-In-law Marilyn Mackley.

Barbara is survived by her Children, Debbie Vollmer (Bob), Sindy Stovall, Dave Gray (JoQuita), Kandi Stoddard (William), LuAnne Patterson, and Tracy Hawes; Siblings, Phyllis Bastian, Chuck Mackley, and Jerry Bohleen (Julie); 21 Grandchildren, 32 Great-Grandchildren, and 2 Great-Great-Grandchildren and 1 on the way; extended family and friends.

Barbara's family will have a Private Celebration of Life Memorial Service at a later date.

Arrangements are entrusted to Lawson's Funeral Homes & Cremation Services Chapel, 722 N. 46th St., Grove, OK 74344 with Shaunda J. Lawson, 3rd Generation Owner/Funeral Director and Staff.

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