Thelma "Starr" Magness

Augusta, GA – Thelma “Starr” Magness was born on March 7, 1951, and raised in Aiken, South Carolina, where she graduated from Aiken High School. Her adventurous spirit and love for the ocean led her to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where she enjoyed a vibrant chapter of her life. Eventually, she returned closer to home, settling in Hilton Head, South Carolina, a place that would become central to her life and legacy.

Starr had a remarkable gift for hospitality. She became a first-class server in some of Hilton Head’s finest restaurants and earned recognition as “Best of the Best” in her field, a testament to her warmth, professionalism, and grace. Never one to stand still, Starr later earned her cosmetology license and opened Tips to Toes, a successful and beloved nail salon that reflected her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.

Beyond her career, Starr embraced life fully. She loved to travel, surround herself with friends, and live each day with joy and purpose. Later in life, she retired to Augusta, Georgia, to be closer to her beloved sister, Brenda Findlay.

Starr passed away on October 13, 2025. She is preceded in death by her parents, Daniel D. and Mildred Reed Magness, Sr.; her brother, Daniel D. Magness, Jr.; and her brother-in-law, James Ferguson Findlay. 

She leaves behind cherished family: her sister Brenda Magness Findlay and her nieces and nephews; Amy Day, David Magness, Jill Manly, James Lawson Findlay and his wife Sandra (and their children Noah, Braxton, and Sofia), and Elizabeth Findlay Carter (and her children James and Caleb).

Starr will be remembered for her infectious warmth, generous spirit, and the joy she brought into every room. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, November 1, 2025 at 11:30 A.M. in Aiken Memorial Gardens with the Rev. Thurman Norville officiating.

Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com