Betty L. Starks, 91, Massena

MASSENA – Betty L. Starks, 91, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, October 7, 2025, at the North Country Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Massena, where she had been a resident for the past three years.

Betty was born in Massena on November 14, 1933, the daughter of the late George and Pearl (Worden) Lavair. She graduated from Massena Central in 1951, and attended Massena School of Business. On August 1, 1964, she married David Starks, joining their two families together.

Betty began her secretarial career on her 18th birthday at Whalen Realty & Insurance. She later joined Reynolds Metals Company, where she served as secretary to the Chief Chemist in the laboratory. It was there that she met David. Together, they raised five daughters.

Once her youngest daughter started school, Betty rejoined the workforce and began working as a reading teacher at St. Joseph’s School and Nightengale Elementary. She later transitioned into the role of school secretary and ultimately became the Secretary to the superintendent of schools at Massena Central and District Clerk of the MCS Board of Education. In addition to her professional roles, she sold AVON products for many years.

A long-time member of the First United Methodist Church, Betty’s life was marked by devotion to her faith, her family, and her community. She sang in the church choir, participated in the hand-bell choir, taught Sunday School, chaired the annual Bazaar for more than 20 years, as well as the annual cabbage roll sale and served as a church trustee. Betty served as the Master of Massena Grange #704.

Betty is survived by their five daughters Robin Berry of Marion, VA, Teresa Lover of Georgetown, TX, Darcie (Jerry) Fregoe of Massena, NY, Dana Starks and her companion Steven Sokalski of Port Charlotte, FL, and Diana Friess of South Yarmouth, MA. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Melissa, Jennifer, Michael, Jeffrey, Johnny, Sarah, Ethan, Evan, Jacob, Quinton, and Alexandra, as well as several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her young son Jeffray from her first marriage, and her husband, David.

She and Dave enjoyed bowling, camping, traveling across the country, and spending time with their children and grandchildren. Betty was an avid quilter and knitter, and she enjoyed attending her grandson’s sporting events.

Memorial contributions in Betty’s name may be made to First United Methodist Church of Massena of the Shriners Children’s Hospital.

Friends and family may call on Friday, October 10, 2025 at the Donaldson Funeral Home in Massena from 10:00 am until time of service at noon. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery, Cook Street.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Donaldson Funeral Home, Massena where memories and condolences may be shared online with the family by visiting www.donaldsonfh.com.