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Nicholas Starr Obituary
on the Central Intelligence Agency
Survivor of the 1993 Terrorist Attack on the Central Intelligence Agency Nicholas Starr, 92, died peacefully on October 13, 2024. He was the only son of Dr. Richard Francis Strong Starr and Dorothy Clara Simpson Starr. He was a descendent of Dr. Comfort Starr, one of the founders of Harvard College.
He graduated from the University of Virginia ('53) with a degree in Geology. He worked in geology and geophysics for the Geological Survey of Newfoundland, the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey, and Continental Oil Company.
In 1961 he changed careers and went to work at the Central Intelligence Agency in Langley, Virginia, serving in analytical and supervisory positions for the next 32 years. Early in his career he was an intelligence analyst concentrating on Soviet missile and space programs. Later, he worked on American arms control and disarmament efforts, contributing intelligence support for the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks [SALT and SALT II] both in Washington and at negotiations abroad.
After 12 years in Arms Control-related positions he was selected for a tour with the CIA's Office of the Inspector General, followed by a tour in the Counter-Intelligence Center. His final assignment was on the Intelligence Community Staff where he worked on compiling budgets for CIA and the other Intelligence Community member agencies.
In January 1993 he was one of 5 CIA employees shot by a Pakistani terrorist at the entrance to the CIA headquarters. He was the most gravely wounded of the three survivors, and was awarded the coveted Intelligence Star medal for his bravery during the attack. He retired the following year and moved to New Hampshire where he restored a 1742 farmhouse and barn, explored local history, and continued to collect colonial American woodworking tools, a passion that he carried on from his father.
His wife of 54 years, Joy Smith Starr, died in 2017. He is survived by two sons and their families: Richard and Zandy Starr of New Castle, Delaware, Peter and Amy Starr of Stratham, New Hampshire, and three grandchildren.
No services are planned. For those who wish to make donations in his memory, he appreciated the work of these organizations:
Boston Children's Hospital
The World Ocean School
Paws and Stripes
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Nicholas Starr
4 Entries
John Smith
December 3, 2024
I can't think of Nick without recalling his occasional dramatic arrivals for work on the midnight shift wearing his kilt and playing his bagpipes, which resounded beautifully, and hauntingly throughout the otherwise mostly empty corridors of the CIA Headquarters building, following one of his outside engagements as a bagpiper. Somewhere along those hallowed halls, Nick's bagpipe notes -- and his professional contributions -- will certainly be found echoing softly even now, for those who listen. RIP, old friend.
David Christian
October 29, 2024
I met Nick in the aftermath of the 1993 shootings. Assigned to the CIA's press office, I was Nick's contact for press and public inquiries about him and his condition. We kept up our contact after the inquiries subsided, and found other topics in common over the following weeks and months. He always had a kind word, an interesting comment, and a joke for me. He stands out for me as a remarkable example of resilience, grace, and modesty under pressure.
Deborah Reams
October 22, 2024
I am saddened to hear of Nick's passing. I was the nurse that took care of him that tragic day & with the EMT's got him into the helicopter which by luck was in the air & got him to the hospital in time to save his life. I was also his nurse case manager in worker's comp. He was the nicest gentleman & so enjoyed our visits.
Stacy Bruce
October 22, 2024
From the team at Paws and Stripes, thank you for your service, Sir. Much love to your family. Stacy Bruce
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