Ross Donnie Starnes

Ross "Donnie" Starnes, 56, of Batesburg, passed away on February 28, 2025. Born in Lexington, SC, he was the son of Ross David Starnes and the late Mildred Warren Kelley. Donnie worked at North Edisto Logging, where he drove a skidder, and it was always an adventure to see what animals he would bring home from work. His love for the outdoors, especially hunting, was a big part of his life. However, Donnie’s greatest passion was his family. He cherished his children and took immense pride in his grandchildren, who brought him the greatest joy.

He is survived by his children, Nikki Starnes, Michelle Hall, Tiffany Starnes Pierce (Aron), and Ross Donnie Starnes, Jr.; his beloved grandchildren, Teagann Erin Pierce, Michael Kaleb Pierce, Zy'heim Rauch, Graysen Guzmen, Anna Hall, and Atalaya Hall, each of whom held a special place in his heart. He is also survived by his siblings, Ross David "Doobie" Starnes, Jr., Elaine Rodgers, and Clint Goff; as well as his dear friends, Terry "T-Bone" Leaphart and Colton Bedenbaugh, along with many other cherished friends.

In addition to his mother, Donnie was preceded in death by his brother, Wendell Goff; infant brother, David Earl Starnes; and grandparents, Ethel and Winfield Puckett.

A funeral service to celebrate Donnie's life will be held at 3:00 PM on Tuesday, March 4th, at Milton Shealy Funeral Home, with Rev. Bill Paulling officiating. Private family burial will be held. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 2:00 PM. Pallbearers will be: Colton Bedenbaugh, Cody Whittle, Patrick Hutto, Patrick Lewis, David Lewis, Leslie Rikard, Troy Oswald, and Terry Leaphart.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to help offset funeral costs at Milton Shealy Funeral Home, 115 North Pine Street, Batesburg, SC 29006.