Staff Sergeant Richard Eugene Starkey II

Staff Sergeant Richard Eugene Starkey, II of West Salem, Ohio, entered into rest on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Hospice of The Western Reserve in Medina following a brief period of declining health. His loving family was by his side.
Unfortunately, as a mother writing my son's obituary isn't the hardest part of this process. But it is hard, nonetheless. I want to write a book. I don't want him to be forgotten. I want everyone to know how amazing he was. I want people to think about him and miss him. I want everyone to know how hard he loved and how much love he still had to give. I want everyone to know that he was my favorite. But I can't write a book.
He was born on April 11, 1996, to Richard and Tanya (Smith) Starkey, who were so blessed and happy to have him.
His older sister Kandis (Richard Grasser) children Godric and Lilly) could not wait to meet him. They were best friends growing up. He was the daredevil to her "Just Do It" ideas.
The younger sister, Twila (Mark Garrity) became much closer as adults.
He wrestled all through school. He valued his experiences and valued the lessons from his coaches and his matches.
Out of high school he joined the Marine Corps in 2015. He loved the brotherhood that he had. He cherished their friendships and considered them family.
Richard was serving out 10 years, and he felt he had so much more to give.
He loved shooting guns and riding side by sides. He kept a close circle of friends that he spent doing things with.
His greatest accomplishment and the beat that kept his heart going after marrying Abigail (Hendershot) were his children, Scarlette (5) and Richard, III (4) were the loves of his life. He spent every free hour entertaining himself with them. From zoo visits, playing at the park, tree swinging, fishing, hiking, Lego's cars and games were their favorite pastimes.
He loved the snow, and his last happy moment was taking them sled riding. Every one of his "lasts" was with them.
Cancer Sucks! He left behind so many families and friends.
In addition to his beloved wife, Abigail, his children, and parents, he is survived by his grandmother, Eleanor Kerns, Aunt Deb, Krista Gregg; Aunt Lynetta Starkey Jenna, Aunt Jennifer Canellos, Uncle John Dregen' grandparents, Howard and Sharon Smith, Uncle Chris Smith, Adrian, Amaya, Andrew, Uncle Robert Smith and Kerrianne Smith, Aaron, Ustin and Dionte Xavier.
His uncle Steve Starkey passed away, and his Aunt Michelle passed away not long after him on January 10th.
A Celebration of Life for family and friends will take place on Saturday, January 24th @ 3:00 pm at Greystone Event Center, 50 Riffle Rd., Wooster, Ohio 44691.
Custer-Glenn Funeral Home in Wooster is assisting the family.