Search by Name

Search by Name

Anna Joelle "Smidge" Starr

Anna Starr Obituary

STARR, Anna Joelle "Smidge"October 5, 2001 to January 14, 2008. Anna lived a joyful life of compassion, inspiration, strength and courage. She was a little girl like any other, yet in many ways she was unique. She loved princesses and Disney World. She touched the life of all those around her. She taught us how to shrug off illness and love the wonders of life. We will miss her deeply. Anna attended Gower Elementary School and was excited to begin kindergarten at Akiva School this fall in Nashville, TN. Anna was released from her lifelong epilepsy while she slept on January 13th. She is survived by her parents, Drs. Fred and Sarah Starr, and her brothers, Sammy and Boots. Other relatives include Hon James and Julie Giddings of Williamston, MI, Joyce and Eugene Starr of Englewood Cliffs, NJ, Melissa Giddings of Baltimore, MD, Andrew Giddings of Mason MI, Shep and Risa (Starr) Siegel of New York, NY, Larry and Shari (Starr) Yellen of Wycoff, NJ. The family will receive friends and family on Wednesday, January 16, 2008 from 6 until 8 p.m., at the Starr home at 7161 Forrest Oaks Drive, Nashville, TN. A Memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Thursday, January 17, 2008 at Congregation Micah, 2001 Old Hickory Boulevard, Brentwood, TN. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to the Anna J. Starr Foundation for the Advancement of Epilepsy Treatment, P.O. Box 40466, Nashville, TN 37204. MARSHALL DONNELLY COMBS, (615) 327-1111.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Tennessean on Jan. 16, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Anna Starr

Sponsored by MouseCalls Computer Services.

Not sure what to say?





Karen Paseur

January 15, 2009

Dr. Starr and family, We're thinking about your family during this painful time of loss. May those precious memories of Smidge warm your hearts today and forever. All our prayers, The Paseur Family

Marc, Addie, Hayey, and Ella Evans

January 14, 2009

I am so SO sorry for your tremendous loss. All the best to you and your family.

Becki Papka

January 1, 2009

Hi Fred, I saw Eden last week and she told me about Anna and the foundation. I am so deeply moved by your tribute to your beautiful little girl and so sorry for your loss. I imagine this must be a very hard time of year for you - - on top of how difficult this whole year has surely been. You and your family are in my thoughts. -Becki

Jim and Kim Berkowitz

November 21, 2008

Dear Fred and Sarah,
What a beautiful photo of Anna and what a heart-filled tribute to her.
During this season of thanks and giving, we wanted to remind you how often you and your family are thought of and are in our prayers. May Anna's sweet and angelic smile always warm your hearts in times of sorrow.

Shelley Rutkowski

September 7, 2008

I remember how you used to talk about Anna and how happy she made you. I am profoundly sorry for your loss. May her life and this foundation mean less suffering for others.

Eden Silver

September 2, 2008

I never knew Anna, but her light shines right out of her photos. My heart is with you.

David Glazer

September 1, 2008

Fred,

I am so sorry for your loss. It is a terrible tihing to lose a child. You are doing a great thing by starting a foundation in her memory.

Lisa (Pinto) Korczak

July 15, 2008

Words cannot express my heartache, hearing of the loss of your first little miracle, Anna. I cannot even begin to understand or relate to the feelings such a journey would create. I can only offer you the most genuine of prayers for you to feel peace and best wishes for happiness.

Trish Lipani

April 2, 2008

Dear Fred and Sarah,
I am so very sorry to hear about Anna. I met her on one occasion when I was still at Vanderbilt, and I remember her as a sweet child. I hope that you are able to find all of the support and comfort that you need - Hmm, I can't imagine that this is possible. I am amazed by your efforts to celebrate Anna's life. What a wonderful tribute to her! I wish you well.

Leah Bowen

March 13, 2008

Dear Fred & Sarah,
I think of you all so often and cannot imagine the pain you have endured the last several months. No words seem adequate. Please know that we are continuing to pray for the two of you and Sammy and Boots. Anna is with you and her sweet spirit will always provide brightness. You are wonderful parents.
Love,
Leah & Shane

Stephanie Roth

March 10, 2008

Fred and Sarah,
My deepest sympathy to your family for your loss. That beautiful little Anna is watching over both of you and Sammy and Boots. She will live in your hearts forever.

Linda Rose

February 14, 2008

Dear Fred and Family: I was deeply saddened to hear of the loss of your daughter Anna. I just love the picture of her on the homepage of this guest book. And I remember seeing her smile when we ran into you at the airport in the security line. I know her memory and spirt will live on. Linda Rose

Rebekah Walker

January 31, 2008

Dear Fred and Sarah, I just today learned of your tragic loss of Anna's presence. It took my breath and I am so sorry that you all have this sorrow. I only met Anna once but have never forgotten it because her personality was big and bright. I met her with you on the walking bridge and remember her bright shiny shoes and how happy she was with those shoes and in general. She was the picture of a child full of joy who was celebrated as herself. I recall how much you allowed her to be who she was and what pleasure you, we all took in her in that moment, that remains. I will pray daily for your healing, for Boots and Sammy and know the happiness of her life will somehow sustain you. May the support and love and prayers of friends strengthen you as you move thru each moment. Peace, Rebekah Walker

Louisa Avery

January 28, 2008

Fred, I just learned today that it was Anna. My tears, thoughts, and prayers are with you and your family at this time of such loss. I wish you comfort in your grief.

Margaret Kingsbury-Cho

January 26, 2008

Sarah and Fred,
I am so terribly, terribly sorry for your loss. I don't know what else to say.

Suzanne Midford

January 25, 2008

Sarah and Fred,
Words can't express my sorrow to hear of Anna's passing. The joy she took in life and the light she spread to others will always shine. On behalf of all our kids, may her life's light shine on through her foundation.
Suzanne

Suzi Khiar

January 25, 2008

Dear Sarah, Fred, Sammy and Boots,
We send our deepest sympathy and a warm embrace to comfort you during this very difficult time. Know that you and Anna are in our thoughts and prayers, and that we are here for you now and always.
With much love,
Suzi, Karim, Amelie & Tristan

Bill & Janine Wittenberg

January 24, 2008

Dear Fred and Sarah,
We are deeply sorry for the loss of your beautiful little girl. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Karen Moore Josephson

January 23, 2008

Sarah and Fred - I am filled with sorrow from the news about Anna. Although I never met her, I felt her presence through Sarah's words and seeing her sweet "girlie" toys and things in the house. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Tracy McDermott

January 23, 2008

Prayers for your family, comfort and strength... we are here for you~ "journeycontinued" yahoo friends.

Fred and Sarah Starr

January 23, 2008

Once again. We are overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and support. Our family is continuing to mourn Anna's loss as we are deeply saddened by her passing. Everyone's kind words here offer us hope, and joy.

Our focus has been on Anna's life, and how great it was to have her for the time we did. The foundation website is growing everyday and we are looking forward to helping other children like her. The Address is www.annastarrfoundation.org.

Julia Jackson

January 23, 2008

Dear Fred & Sarah-
John and I are heartbroken over this loss. We continue to pray for you both and your families. Anna was a wonderful little girl and we all miss her terribly.

Amy Kleine

January 23, 2008

Dear Fred and Sarah,

My thoughts are with you and your family. I did not know Anna, but my family has known the Giddings for years in Lansing and I have heard about Anna from Melissa here in Baltimore. My wish for you is to continue the brightness of Anna's short life.

Ron & Nancy Yellin

January 22, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Jennifer Lein

January 21, 2008

Sarah and Fred,
Even though I never met Anna, I felt like I had after attending the service on January 17. She sounded like a divine blessing and joy from the Lord. Lean not on your own understanding, but trust in the Lord. Your testimonies at the service were beautiful and inspiring. I will continue to pray for your family.
Jennifer Lein
(Autism Biomedical Support Group)

Chris Marshall

January 21, 2008

Melissa, I am so sorry for your loss of Anna. Beth and I are thinking our best thoughts for you and your family.

Trina Montgomery

January 21, 2008

Fred and Sarah,

I didn't know you personally, but I have heard so many wonderful stories and comments about your sweet angel, Anna, through your many friends in the autism community. I am so very sorry that you lost your baby girl. I can only imagine that it's the very worst kind of pain you are going through. I'll be praying for you and your families.

Amanda Soares

January 20, 2008

The Starr Family:
I am a friend of Melissa's from Hopkins and feel like I knew Anna from all the great stories we have heard during our lunch breaks. I am very sorry to hear of your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Alice Lium

January 20, 2008

Oh, Dear. I am so sorry to hear about your loss of Anna. I feel so privileged to know Melissa and to know she was close to Anna. I'd be glad to help in some way if I can.

With Love, Carol & Bob May

January 20, 2008

She came like a comet in the night sky, shined briefly, and then was gone. We are so glad we came to know her.

Karen Halbert

January 20, 2008

Fred and Sarah,

My heart is so heavy each day as I think of what you are going through. Jack and I loved Anna so much and cherished her friendship with Jack. I know he will truly miss her bubbly personality, as will I.

Please know that we are praying for you and are here for anything that you need.

Love,

Karen, Scott & Jack Halbert

Suzanne (Melissa Gidding's friend)

January 20, 2008

I'm so sorry to hear of this loss. My prayers are with all of you.

Anna the Princess

January 19, 2008

Anna meets Ariel for her Make A Wish

January 19, 2008

Rosalie Morgan

January 19, 2008

Julie and Family,
Although you do not know me personally I am a RN at Johns Hopkins who had the pleasure of sharing in your daughters life through her aunt Melissa's proud stories. It was always a joy to watch Melissa glow as she shared Anna with us. I send this note in support to your family, letting you know she will continue to shine in the memories we hold of her.

Sandra Wrenn

January 19, 2008

I only knew Anna through her father's eyes when he talked with me about her. I could sense his love for this little one and his dedication to maintain her health and give her a life of living despite her health status. At the mention of Anna his eyes shown and sparkeled and I knew this little one was above being special that she was a blessing to all of us and her father's love would guide her throughout her life.

I know now that she continues to live on in her family's memories and Fred's sparkling eyes continue to remind me of his love and her life.

Thank you Anna for guiding all who knew you and know your family.
Thank you to the Starr family and the deication to continue searching for help for others who face your health issue.

Fred Starr

January 18, 2008

Thank you all so much for your love and support. Anna is with us all.

With our sincere Thank You.

Fred and Sarah Starr

Jessica Greenberg

January 17, 2008

Dear Fred and Sarah,
Our heartfelt and sincerest sympathies go out to you. You were truly blessed by Anna and she by you. Please accept our condolences and know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jessica and Ken Greenberg

Myesha Tidwell

January 17, 2008

I'm sorry to hear about Anna. It saddens me deeply. I give my deepest sympathy to your family and I'll keep you in my prayers. Sitting for you guys for the time I did, I began to know Ms. Anna, Sammie and Boots. And they were some of my new friends. I will miss her.

Dara, Mark and Dylan Berger

January 17, 2008

Words cannot express how sorry we are to hear about Anna. We are thinking of you and wishing you all the love and support at this trying time.

Judy Shewach

January 17, 2008

Julie,

Our thoughts are prayers are with you and your family.

Marie Waite

January 17, 2008

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
From all of us at COVE.

Sue Johnson

January 17, 2008

Julie and Family: We hold you close in our hearts and thoughts at this time. Your little Anna is a beautiful child that apparently had an amazing effect on those lucky enough to know her. Lean on those that love you, and know that so many who are not physically with you are there in spirit.

The staff at Every Woman's Place, Muskegon, MI

Mary Lovik

January 17, 2008

Julie and Family:
I am so very sorry for your loss. I will keep you in my prayers and wish you comfort at this sad time.

Barbara Niess

January 17, 2008

We are thinking of you during this time, we send a lot of love to you and your family.

Amanda Archer Women's Aid

January 17, 2008

Our thoughts are with you and your family.

Emma Peterson

January 17, 2008

It saddens me to learn of such loss at a young age. Please remember that God is in need of those he has chosen. I believe she was chosen.
With deepest regrets. I will keep the family in my prayers.

Staff at Barbara Kettle Gundlach Shelter

January 17, 2008

Julie and family-
Our hearts go out to you at this time of loss. May love of friends and family comfort you at this time.

Sherri Viau

January 17, 2008

Julie & Family - I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope you find comfort in the memories of Anna's smiles and laughter.

To live in hearts we leave behind
is not to die.
~Thomas Campbell, "Hallowed Ground"

Jeff & Robin Sauvie

January 17, 2008

We are so sorry for the loss of your precious daughter. Our hearts go out to you at this time of grief. We feel privileged to have known her. May God be with you.

Sonya Jones

January 17, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Rebecca Norman

January 17, 2008

My prayers are with you and your famnily. I am truly sorry for your loss.

Brett Shapiro

January 16, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Although we did not know Anna, I had the privilege of hearing about her from her father; what joy she brought to your lives. May Anna's memory continue to be a blessing. Brett and Lauren Shapiro

Donald Sloan

January 16, 2008

Dear Fred and Sarah,

I am so saddened by the sudden loss of your precious little Anna Joelle. My deepest and heartfelt sympathies go out to you. May God give you the comfort and peace that you need during this
time of grief and sorrow. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

God needed an Angel in Heaven to sit at His feet

He chose a lily pure and sweet,

A soul that was simply the best

He chose his favorite one,with God she is now at rest

Jeff Sauvie

January 16, 2008

the Sauvie family would like to extend our deepest sympathies for the loss of such a precious child, we are here to lend our support.

Jeff & Robin

Carolyn Forrest

January 16, 2008

Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. May God's love and the love of your family and friends comfort you in your sorrow. "The Lord gave and the Lord hath taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord." Job l:21 With Love, Carolyn Forrest

Beth Morrison

January 16, 2008

Julie and family - you are in our thoughts.

Cheryl O

January 16, 2008

Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.

Carri Phillips

January 16, 2008

I'm so sorry for your loss. Please know many thoughts and prayers are being sent your way.

Rene and Amy Larriviere

January 16, 2008

Our thought and prayers are with you and your family.

Anna Melbin

January 16, 2008

Julie,
We haven't been in touch in a long time but I think of you (and all of MDVPTB!) often. I am so sorry for your tremendous loss. I'm sending good, healing energy your way, and hope you find comfort in your memories.
- Anna

Jody Smith

January 16, 2008

My heartfelt prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.

Doreen Howson

January 16, 2008

Julie
My thought and prayers are with you. I hope memories of your lovely granddaughter will help you during this time.

Terry Sayatovich

January 16, 2008

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. It sounds like Anna gave you many memorable moments to cling to during your time of loss. Keep your eyes upward and you will see her in the Stars shinning down upon you through eternity. May God bless you and your family during this time.

Terry Sayatovich
Houghton Michigan

Annette Cornelius

January 16, 2008

I am so sorry for the loss to you and your family. I want you to know that it was a privilege for me to be a part of Anna's life at the GJCC. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Rhoda Hacker

January 16, 2008

Julie, Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Gail Nelson

January 16, 2008

Julie & Family, I am so sorry for your loss. I can only imagine the grief you must feel. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Debi Cain

January 16, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Karen Porter (Julie Giddings' Coworker)

January 16, 2008

I'm so sorry to learn of Anna's death. Please know that I am deeply saddened and my heart goes out to you. It must be an excruciating experience and I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Doreen Bowerman

January 16, 2008

My prayers are with you and your family. May you remember the good times you had together and may they ease the sorrow and pain of your loss.

Eily Allen

January 16, 2008

My family's thoughts and hearts are with you and your family.

Eily and Matt Allen

Stephan Holland

January 16, 2008

I cannot begin to fathom the impact of your loss and sorrow. Please accept my deepest condolences.

Patrick Rose

January 16, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I have so much respect for Judge Giddings, and can only imagine the joy of having such a beautiful grandaughter and the immense grief of losing her. (I say this as a father of a 3 year old girl and a 6 and 1/2 year old son.) I will keep you all in my prayers.

Saba Abaci

January 16, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Showing 1 - 76 of 76 results

Make a Donation
in Anna Starr's name

Memorial Events
for Anna Starr

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Anna's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Anna Starr's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more