Gwendolyn Starks

Gwendolyn Starks, affectionately known as Gwen, was born on April 15, 1949, in Macon, Georgia, to Henry Ford Grissett, Sr., and the late Bernice Williams. She was raised in Evansville, Indiana, where she fostered her love for music by participating in the church choir. Gwen was initially a member of Cleaves Memorial CME Church, later joining Greater St. James Baptist Church, and ultimately finding her spiritual home at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church. Her dedication to her faith was evident through her active involvement in the choir and her participation in the Evansville Chapter Workshop each year.

Gwen graduated from North High School and furthered her education at Lockyear Business College. She built a successful career, serving as a secretary at General Foods for 15 years before dedicating 30 years of her professional life to Bristol Myers Squibb, from which she retired.

An accomplished cook, Gwen took great joy in preparing meals for her family and church gatherings. In her final days, she cherished the time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, relishing the memories they created together.

Gwen was preceded in death by her grandchild, Genix Starks, as well as her brothers, Henry Ford Grissett, Jr., and Leonard Grissett. 

She is survived by her children, Candice Rene Starks and Irvin Luvell, both of Evansville, Indiana; her grandchildren, Jesha Fox, Janay Fox, Malik Henry, Devin Starks, Deshawn Babb, all of Evansville, and Caleb Lengacher of Georgia; 11 great-grandchildren; her father, Henry Ford Grissett , Sr. of Evansville; sisters, Alice Cooper and Gilda Turner of Evansville, and Karen Robinson of Denver, Colorado; brother, Bruce Grissett of Cincinnati, OH; along with a host of other family members and friends.

Gwen Starks will be remembered for her unwavering love, devotion to family, and commitment to her community. Her legacy of kindness and service will leave an enduring impact on all who knew