Chester Eugene Starkey

Chester Eugene “Gene” Starkey, 85, El Dorado Springs, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025, at Community Springs Nursing Home in El Dorado Springs following a lengthy illness. Gene was born Dec. 4, 1940, in Schell City, MO to Chester A. and Martha Ann (Alexander) Starkey. He married Janet Denning on Oct. 29, 2016, in El Dorado Springs and she survives of the home.

Gene was raised in Schell City and graduated from Schell City High School Class of 1958. For many years he worked as a manager at Nelly Don in Nevada until it’s closing in 1996. He then worked for the El Dorado School District for 10 years until his retirement. In addition, Gene raised cattle all of his life. He was a longtime member of Park Street Christian Church and was currently attending the First Baptist Church in El Dorado Springs.

In addition his wife, Janet, he is survived by five children: Doug Starkey (Amy), Springfield, Mike Starkey (Chris), St. Louis, MO, Shannon Davis (Paul), Springfield, Michael Denning (Sara), Chesapeake, VA, and Michelle Nowak (Paul), Lebanon, OR; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one brother, Jim Starkey (Joyce), El Dorado Springs; and a sister-in-law, Glennise Starkey, Blue Springs, MO. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Bill Starkey; and daughter in law, Mista Starkey.

Memorial services will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, at the First Baptist Church, El Dorado Springs with Pastor Jonathan Tyte officiating. Committal will follow in Green Lawn Cemetery, Schell City. The family will receive friends from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service at the church.

Memorials to the Alzheimer’s Association are suggested and can be made in care of Ferry Funeral Home.

You may view obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com.