Billy Joe Starkey, 58, a Warren County resident and native, was born Sept. 16, 1960 and passed away Oct. 17 at St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital following an extended illness.

He was the owner and operator of B&J Transport, a member of the Church of Christ, and son of the late Alford Bales and Nellie Mae Keel Starkey. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brother Hurbert Wayne Starkey.

Mr. Starkey was married March 14, 1992 to Joyce Eller Starkey, who survives. In addition to his wife, he is survived by uncle Clifford Starkey and wife Khyva of McMinnville; sisters-in-law Connie Harris and husband Mike, and Pat Dodson and husband Gary, all of Sparta; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Graveside service and interment will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 19, at Smyrna Cemetery with David Costello to officiate. Visitation will be 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Friday at High’s. Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

(McMinnville, Tenn.) Oct. 19, 2018