June 4, 2025, 94, Goldsboro —
Bessie Holt Starling, 94, of Princeton, affectionately known as Granny, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Ms. Starling was born April 25, 1931 in Johnston County, North Carolina to the late Erby Stephenson and Gulie Worley Holt. She is preceded in death by her husband James “Jack” Edward Starling, sons; Jackie Lynn Starling and Rickie Charles Starling, brothers; Herman Holt, Leslie Holt, Erby Holt, Jr., sisters; Margaret Wilkins and Mary Joyce Hill, granddaughter; Laura Starling.
She leaves behind a legacy of love, cherished by her devoted family, including her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who were the heart of her world. Granny found joy in bringing her family together, cooking delicious meals, and creating memories filled with laughter and warmth. An avid camper and fisherman, she cherished time spent in nature, casting lines and sharing stories by the campfire.
Granny’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was a devoted member of her church family, where her love for the Lord shone brightly. Not a day passed without her reading her Bible and praying for her family and friends, her heart always open to those around her.
Known simply as Granny to all, Bessie’s boundless love touched everyone she met, and in return, she was loved by all. Her warmth, kindness, and generous spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.
The family will receive friends 10:00am until 11:45am Wednesday, June 11th in the Grace Baptist Church Family Life Center. The Home Going Service will be conducted at 12:00 noon, June 11th in the Grace Baptist Church Family Life Center with the Reverend Stewart Coffman and Reverend Al Sullivan officiating.
Ms. Starling is survived by her 2 sons; James Glen Starling and wife, Betty and Herman Wayne Starling and wife Jean, daughter in laws; Peggy Coor Starling and Bonnie Hainey, sister; Edna Grace Massengill and husband, Bobby, grandchildren; Michael Starling, Joshua Starling and wife, Camber, Shannon Starling and Cynthia Starling; greatgrandchildren; Nate Starling, Mallory Johnson, Braxton Starling, Grayson Starling, special niece and husband, Bruce and Barbara Hill and many other nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the staff of Helping Hands Assisted Living and Gentiva Hospice Care for the love and kindness shown to our mother.
Flowers are welcome or the family suggests memorial contributions can be made to: Grace Baptist Church, PO Box 574, Princeton, NC 27569, or Helping Hands Assisted Living, 2052 US Hwy 70 W. Bus., Goldsboro, NC 27530, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online stjude.org and download their printable Donation Form.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.caseyfh.com.
Casey Funeral Home & Cremations is honored to serve the Starling Family.
