Mary Jo Dulin Starks

Mary Jo Dulin Starks, 92, affectionately known as Momma, Mom, Grandma, Granny, and My Girl, was born December 16, 1933, in Evansville, Indiana, to the late Robert and Estella Dulin. She was called home by Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 11:30 p.m. Surrounded by her loving family at Columbia Nursing Facility, she peacefully accepted God's call.

She professed a hope in Christ at a very early age and was a lifelong, dedicated member of Mt. Olive Galilee Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Floyd Edwards, whom she loved and respected. Under Pastor Floyd's leadership, she was devoted to the Mother's Board, Mission Board, Kitchen Committee, and Sunday School.

Mother Mary Jo loved listening to gospel music and “sometimes” a little rhythm and blues. She also enjoyed cooking and dancing in her early years. Her greatest joy, besides her love for God, was being a wife and raising her children. She truly loved ALL her grandchildren and always had sweet treats waiting for them.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Estella Dulin; husband, Leonard Starks Jr.; sister, Dorothy Nailing; son, Leonard Starks; daughter-in-law, Francis Dulin; and son-in-law, William Suggs.

Mother Mary Jo leaves to cherish her memory, sons, Tommy Dulin, David (Brenda) Starks, and William Anderson; daughters, Susan (Greg) Layne, Diana Suggs, Doris Starks, Marsheila Starks, Lori Starks; and daughter-in-law, Tommie Flemming Starks, all of Evansville, Indiana.

Mother Mary Jo also leaves to cherish her memory, 30 grandchildren, 100 great-grandchildren, and 38 great-great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends. She was the true matriarch of her family, full of life, and loved entertaining her family. She will be truly missed.

“As our family mourns the loss of Mother Mary Jo Dulin Starks on Earth, we rejoice in knowing that she is now with the Lord.”

The Family of Mary Jo Dulin Starks