Ruth Laverne (Taylor) Starkey, of Russell, Kansas, passed away March 19, 2023, at her home in Hutchinson, surrounded by family. Ruth was born June 6, 1930, in Plainville, Kansas, to Ellery and Esther Grace (Blauer) Taylor. She was preceded in death by her parents, and a younger sister Wilma Lee (Taylor) Wilson, of Lawrence, Kansas.
Ruth graduated from Plainville High School in 1948, and was active in music and church activities. She then attended Fort Hays State University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in music in 1952. While attending college, she met the love of her life, Jerald Leland Starkey of Haviland, Kansas. Married on June 2, 1952, the young couple started a new life in Kansas City, where Jerald began his medical education at KU, and Ruth taught elementary school music. Ruth and Jerald celebrated 70 years of marriage last year in June 2022. Their marriage was a testimony to their commitment to God and to one another.
Upon Jerald’s completing his medical training, the couple relocated to Alaska, with their infant daughter Mary, where Jerald served his US Public Health Service commitment. In 1962, the Starkey’s moved to Russell, Kansas, where Ruth remained active in church service and music education for the next 50 years. While in Russell, Ruth taught private piano lessons and served the Otterbein United Methodist Church by playing the piano and organ. She also directed youth choirs, led Bible studies, youth groups, and mission trips. Ruth’s commitment to her Lord Jesus Christ and to her family defined her as a person.
Ruth and Jerald moved to Hutchinson, Kansas, in 2012, to be closer to David’s family and enjoy watching their grandsons grow up. She enjoyed countless basketball games and other school activities. During this time she remained in close contact with family and friends through visits, letters, and phone calls.
Ruth is survived by her husband of 70 years, Dr. Jerald Starkey of Hutchinson, Mary Beth Starkey of El Paso, Texas, son Dr. David Starkey and his wife Karla, along with their children, Jared Starkey, and wife Jewelia of Kansas City, Noah Starkey of Oklahoma City, and Luke Starkey of Hutchinson. Also, she is survived by a brother in law, Verle Starkey of Haviland, Kansas, nieces Jackie Sundell and Jolene Haehl both of Lawrence, Kansas, as well as several special cousins.
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 23, 2023, at Otterbein United Methodist Church, 136 West Wisconsin, Russell, Kansas, with Pastor Michael W. Eurit officiating. A graveside service will be held at 3:30 p.m.at Wellsford Cemetery in Haviland, Kansas. Friends may sign her registration book from 9:00 to 5:00 Wednesday, March 22, at Elliott Mortuary.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Otterbein United Methodist Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.