Viola Ilean (Tucker) Starnes

Viola Starnes, 95, of Kingsport, died at Holston Valley Medical Center on June 19, 2024 at 3:01am after a brief illness. Viola was born on September 1, 1928 in Hawkins County, TN. She was the youngest child of William L. Tucker and Nina Griffith Tucker. 

 Viola was preceded in death by her parents; brother, W.L. (Bill) Tucker, Jr., husband, Sherman Starnes, Jr.; and son, Anthony Wayne Starnes.

She is survived by son, Ronnie L. Starnes and wife, Amy (Ashworth) Starnes; sister-in-law, Noreen Starnes; and several wonderful nieces, nephews, neighbors and friends.

 Viola was an accomplished artist, copy written songwriter and musician, singing in trios and quartets, seamstress, doll maker and a fantastic cook and homemaker, the best loving mother ever. She was an avid reader, lifelong Christian, and very devoted to the Lord and study of the Bible. She dedicated her entire life to the care and nurturing of her family and friends. She was a member of Macedonia Freewill Baptist Church; she also attended Community United Methodist Church.

 Viola’s family would like to express sincere thanks to her many caregivers including Holston Valley Hospital ICU and emergency room services, Dr. Sean Watson and his staff for persistent and attentive care over the years as well as Dr. Arthur Boyd and his nurse, Barbara Edwards and Tammy at Frontier Health.

 A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date for family and friends. Everyone loved Viola , she was one of God’s own and will forever be missed. Our loss is Heavens gain – God Bless You Momma.