Ricky Starks

Ricky "Rick" Lee Starks was born on December 22, 1950,
to Johnny and Mary Starks in Springfield, Missouri. He was the
baby of the family and grew up surrounded by love and
admiration. His childhood was filled with adventure and
resilience, especially after suffering severe burns as a young boy.
With unwavering determination, he overcame the injury, never
allowing it to hold him back. His early years were shaped by a
close-knit family, playful mischief, and a love for sports that
would stay with him throughout his life.
Rick received an education at Fairbanks
Elementary, Pipkin Junior High, and Central
High School. His lively spirit and natural
athletic talent were apparent as he excelled in
football, basketball, and baseball. His time in
school not only shaped his skills on the field and
court but also strengthened his determination,
discipline, and ability to connect with others.
Rick attended Gibson Chapel Presbyterian
Church with his family, where he was baptized and grounded in
faith.
Rick was always riding around on a bicycle trying to do tricks-
even when they didn't end so gracefully. He was on a bike when
he met the love of his life Jewell Mae Murphy, and he flipped the
bike trying to impress her landing flat but leaving everyone in
stitches. On June 10th, 1970, Jewell and Rick were married.
Rick served in the United States Navy. After his time in the
military, he returned home to his family in Springfield and later
moved to Wichita in 1986. He was a jack-of-all-trades
throughout his life-working in concrete, janitorial services,
auto detailing, and factory work. He retired after many years
with Wilson Building Maintenance. Despite the long hours,
Rick always found time for what mattered most: his family.
Rick was known for his love of fishing, pool,
dominoes, and baseball. He could often be
found with a fishing pole in hand or cue stick
at the ready. His baseball skills were so sharp
that scouts from the Pittsburg Pirates took
notice. Golf was another favorite pastime,
although back issues in later years kept him
more of a fan than a player.
Rick had a signature humor and a heart
bigger than words. He loved organizing fish
fries and shrimp boils for friends and family
and was known to give-even when he had
little to spare. His favorite ice cream was
butter pecan, famously known in the family for
"giving you nuts," as he'd joke with a laugh
only, he could deliver. He delighted in the
company of his children and grandchildren,
often saying family was his proudest
accomplishment.
Rick passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Jewell
Starks; his sibling: Juan Starks (Loyce) of Springfield, Missouri;
his children: Anessa Relf (Lonnie), Ingrid Starks (Rudy), Roslyn
Starks (Derek), Rikki Starks and Rickey Lee Starks Jr. from
Wichita; Keasha Starks from Tamarac, Florida; Cherlene
Jackson and Raquel Young from
Lebanon, Missouri. He leaves behind a
legacy of 35 grandchildren, 19 great-
grandchildren, and a host of nieces,
nephews, cousins and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents,
Johnny and Mary Starks; siblings Rita
Scott, Gary Starks, and Pam Goodwin; his
son Rodney Young and a cherished
grandson, Ja'Kobe O'Sha.
A dove release and parting view will follow
the service, as family and friends gather to
honor a man who lived fully, loved deeply,
and gave generously. Rick will be dearly
missed, but his stories, laughter, and
unwavering love will live on in the hearts
of all who knew him.
icky Lee Starks peacefully transitioned on June 5,2025.
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