Essie Mae Starks

Ms. Essie Corealia Starks was born on October 28, 1937, in Lincoln County, Georgia, to the late Mr. George and Mrs. Rosa Lee Norman Starks. At an early age, she professed her faith in Christ and joined Tabernacle Baptist Church, where she remained a devoted member throughout her life.

Essie was a loving and dedicated family woman who found joy in the simple pleasures of life—spending time with her family and friends, sharing laughter, and creating cherished memories. She believed in the value of hard work and took great pride in providing for those she loved.

She was preceded in death by her life partner, Mr. Walter Lee Elam, and her beloved children: Larry Starks, Bobbie Lee Starks, Ella Mae Elam, Hope Elam, and Mitchell Michael Elam.

Essie leaves behind a legacy of love and strength in the hearts of her children: four daughters, Delois (Henry) Brown, Patsy Elam, and Jackie (Sylvester) Harris, all of Lincolnton, GA, and Lee Elam of Atlanta, GA; and three sons, Walter Lee (Maggie) Elam, Jr. of Hope Mills, NC, Thomas Milton (Debra) Elam of Washington, GA, and Willie (Amelia) Elam of Lincolnton, GA.

She is also survived by her devoted sister, Mary Richard of Florida; five grandchildren, Gabriel Elam, Bryant Booker, Jessica Elam, Jeffery Brown, and Lex Harris; ten great-grandchildren, Tamia Elam, Jaslyn Booker, Jeremy Booker, Jamin Booker, Syriah Hogan, Ny’Jera Lockhart, Major Elam, Kadence Elam, Christian Elam, and Camden Elam; four great-great-grandchildren, Raylin Elam, Riley Elam, Aubreui Griffin, and Renya Elam; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends who will continue to celebrate her memory.

Ms. Essie Corealia Starks lived a full life marked by love, resilience, and faith. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.