07/14/2025
Meet Your Therapist: Paula Starnes Walker
Paula Starnes Walker is the owner of The Massage Cottage and a seasoned therapist with a heart for healing. Originally from Lilburn, Georgia, Paula is the fourth child of the late William Eugene “Bill” Starnes and June Landers Starnes. Her journey into massage therapy began nearly 25 years ago after graduating from the Florida College of Natural Health in Sarasota, Florida—where she spent seven years before making Jesup her forever home.
Paula is nationally board certified in massage therapy and licensed in the state of Georgia. She has been a proud member of the American Massage Therapy Association for 25 years. Her deep love for anatomy, physiology, and the healing power of touch is matched only by her belief that massage is a gift God placed in her hands and heart.
While she practices a wide range of techniques—from Swedish and sports massage to cranial sacral, reflexology, stretch therapy, and prenatal care—Paula specializes in neuromuscular therapy, tailoring every session to what each client’s body needs most.
Outside of the treatment room, Paula is married to Jesup native Robert Walker (you may know him better as Santa Claus!) and is mom to Lynette (Codie Futch) and Little Robert Walker. Her greatest joy comes from being “Yaya” to her beloved grandchildren Carlie, Cora Lou, and CJ. She loves cooking; spending time outdoors, hunting, crafting, and painting—but her favorite role of all is simply loving on her family.
Above all, Paula’s heart belongs to Jesus, and she strives to reflect that love in all she does—especially in her work.