Betty Jean “Jeannie” Howell Starkey

Last Updated on May 4, 2026 by Cass County Communication Network

Betty Jean “Jeannie” Howell Starkey, 87, passed away Friday, May 1, 2026, as a resident of Miller’s Merry Manor, where she had lived for the past five years. She has gone Home—to her Heavenly Home—where dementia no longer has a hold on her, and where she is reunited with her beloved husband, Walt.

Jeannie was born on September 6, 1938, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to Genevieve Bennett and William Paul Howell. At a young age, she moved with her parents to Logansport, a community she was proud to call home throughout her life.

For much of her life, Jeannie devoted herself to church ministry, focusing on teaching children through Sunday School, Junior Church, and Vacation Bible School. Her legacy lives on in the hundreds of children touched by her teaching, as well as the countless women whose lives were impacted by her example as a godly Christian woman.

She especially cherished visits from her “church kids” in her later years and found great joy when they brought their own children to be taught by her.

“One nation under God” was more than just a phrase to her. Patriotism was second only to her faith in her Savior, Jesus Christ. She loved her country deeply and believed wholeheartedly in the values of faith, family, and freedom.

She also had a tremendous love for animals, especially dogs and horses. In her later years, her beloved Boston Terriers became a great source of comfort and security, bringing her companionship, joy, and peace.

On October 7, 1956, she married Walter Starkey. Together they shared 43 years of marriage before his passing in 2000. They raised three daughters and welcomed countless others into their home, offering an enduring example of commitment, love, and hospitality.

Jeannie was instrumental in leading Walt to church, where he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior. She nurtured a deeply Christian household, and those who knew her recognized that she was the same faithful person at home as she was at church.

She is survived by her daughters, Tamara Caton (Jay), Dena Caye, and Joni Pemberton (Tony); four grandchildren (Michelle, Josh, EJ, and Micah); and two great-grandchildren (Val and Hannah).

Her brothers Jack and Jay Howell both died while she was a resident at Miller’s so she never had to bear the pain of their loss. Sisters in law Kay and Anne Howell, remained a cherished part of her life. Their bond with Jeannie was one of enduring love, family connection, and shared memories. She is also survived by her life long friend, Rose Clem, her “RoseBuddy”.

Her family finds comfort in knowing that she is now Home—the place she faithfully directed others toward and where she had longed to be. They are deeply grateful for the love, prayers, and support shown during this time.

A celebration of life service will be held on Tuesday May 5, 2026, at 1:00 pm in the Gundrum Funeral Home with Pastor Jim Zimmerman officiating. A burial will follow at Ever-Rest Memorial Park Cemetery.

A visitation will be held from 11:00 am until time of services on Tuesday at the funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Grace Fellowship Church or to your own church in memory of Jeannie, something that would have delighted her.

You may sign Jeannie’s guest book and send condolences online to the family at www.gundrumcares.com.