Starling Funeral Home

01/09/2026

New Year, New Peace of Mind

As a new year begins, it’s a meaningful time to think about the people you love and the legacy you want to leave behind. Giving your family peace of mind is one of the most thoughtful gifts you can offer.

Pre-planning isn’t about focusing on the end of life — it’s about planning ahead so your wishes are known, your loved ones are protected from difficult decisions, and moments of stress are eased during an already emotional time. It’s a simple, compassionate step that brings clarity today and comfort for the future.

01/07/2026

Telling a loved one’s story is an act of love. 🤍

Our free guide to obituary writing offers simple steps and thoughtful examples to help you honor a life with clarity, meaning, and heart.

The Obituary Writer can be found on our website and is available to help you create a meaningful tribute when you need it most.

01/06/2026

Virginia “Boots” Hardy Gray, 90, of Appling, Georgia, met her Lord and Savior face to face on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at her home surrounded by love.

Affectionately known as “Boots,” she lived a life full of faith, service, and joy. Boots loved to travel, shop, and attend country music sh...

View Boots's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

01/01/2026

As we step into a new year together, Starling Funeral Home wants to wish you and your loved ones a very Happy New Year's Day! 🎉

Thank you for being part of our community. Your trust means everything to us, and we look forward to serving you with the same care and dedication in the days ahead.

What are you most looking forward to this year? ✨

12/31/2025

Mr. Andrew Jones, 76, of Harlem, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Andrew was preceded in death by his parents, Nathan and Helen Jones. On April 10, 1991, he married the love of his life, Maria Lopez, who survives him. Their marriage was a true partnership built on love, devotion, and family.

In addition to his wife, Andrew is survived by his eight brothers: Rev. Nathan (Marilyn) Jones, Jr., Edward Jones, Rev. Casey (Mary) Jones, Freddie Jones, Gary Jones, Melvin Jones, Alfred (Dorothy) Jones, and John (Sabrina) Jones; his sisters: Annie Mae Thomas, Frances (Gordon) Moore, Alice Jones, Alma Jones, Rosie Jones and Ruth Douglas; his daughters: Jennifer Denise Merriweather and Haylie Ann Zehr; his grandchildren: Shaundreka, Lionel, TaNisha, and Lewis Merriweather; and his great-grandchildren: Mayluana, Montague, Lionel Jr., Luicfer, and his “peanut,” Shaylee Merriweather.
He is also survived by his brothers-in-law: Manuel Lopez, Jr., Michael (Lisa) Lopez, and Mark (Paula) Lopez; his aunt, Cookie Newman; and his aunt/buddy, Debbie Ingledue.

The family will receive friends on Friday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Starling Funeral Home.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Bellevue Memorial Gardens, with Rev. Casey Jones, Dr. Clayton Galloway, and Wayne Dunn officiating.

Pallbearers will be Mark Lopez, Jr., Mike Lopez, Jr., Christopher Lopez, Sr., Andrew Lopez, Christopher Lopez, Jr., and Colton Lopez.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bethesda Baptist Church.

Andrew will be remembered for his love of family, his faith, and the lasting impact he made on all who knew him.

12/30/2025

Marion James Reese entered into rest December 29, 2025.

James loved to cook, loved his dirt track racing, but most of all loved his family, friends and critters. He was a beloved father and will truly be missed. A snickers bar will be waiting on you at the golden gate! We love you!

S...

View Marion James Reese's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

12/29/2025

View Jenifer Marie Latchaw's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

12/26/2025

Keith Wade Hewitt, 43, of Grovetown, Georgia, passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.

Keith had a truly beautiful soul. He had a gift for music and loved to play the guitar and sing, often entertaining and bringing joy to those he loved most. He was an amazing artist with a creative spiri...

View Keith Hewitt's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

12/25/2025

Merry Christmas from all of us at Starling Funeral Home! 🎄

This special time of year reminds us how grateful we are for each of you. Your trust and support mean everything to our business. We hope your Christmas is filled with love, laughter, and precious moments with the people who matter most.

We understand this season can bring both joy and challenges. Whatever your Christmas looks like this year, know that we appreciate being part of your journey.

How are you celebrating Christmas with your loved ones this year?

12/18/2025

Carla M. Benson, 48, of Augusta, Georgia, passed away on Sunday, December 14, 2025. Carla was a thoughtful and loving soul whose gentle spirit and warm heart touched everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all whose lives were blessed by her presence.
Carla had...

View Carla Michelle Benson's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

12/17/2025

Herbert “Lanier” Gray, 92, entered into rest on December 15, 2025, at his home in Appling.

Lanier loved to fish and hunt, grow tomato plants, and loved to travel. He was a great servant of the Lord; he was Deacon Emeritus of Kiokee Baptist Church. He loved his church and his church family de...

View Herbert Lanier Gray's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

12/11/2025

The holidays can feel confusing for children who are grieving.

Simple rituals can help them feel connected, seen, and supported — whether it’s hanging a special ornament, sharing a story, or lighting a candle together.

Small gestures matter.

And little hearts need gentle spaces to remember. ❤️

If your family is navigating grief this season, you’re not alone.