Helen Louise (Cox) Starnes

Helen Starnes, 93, a life-long resident of Union County, passed away on May 2, 2017 surrounded by her family. Helen was born November 5, 1923 to Lula and Rufus Cox. She was the last survivor of the eight siblings. Her husband Oren predeceased her in 1987. Tom Brokaw would call Helen part of the “greatest generation,” those who came of age during The Great Depression and the Second World War and who shared values like economy, duty, love of family and country. At the time of Helen and Oren’s courtship, a brutal war raged. Having witnessed starvation in his travels with the Merchant Marines, Oren returned from WWII intent on feeding people. He and Helen married November 16, 1945, and they labored as a team to build a farm and business, Circle S Ranch, now owned and operated by their son. Their family of five children worked together as they grew up inspired by the cheerful, fun-loving Helen. Every task became fun when Helen was around. Neighbors coming to get eggs often commented about hearing singing in the egg room. A faithful member of Prospect United Methodist Church, Helen lived her faith in her quiet, unassuming way contributing time and energy to church projects and helping neighbors. A talented seamstress, an artist, and a superb cook, Helen, a choir member with a beautiful alto voice, loved music and encouraged each of her five children to develop their musical talent. She was a wonderful neighbor and friend and could write the book on how to be a good mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Helen was known for her love of clothes, her fashionable appearance, her attention to detail and her elegance. She loved flowers and took pride in her yard and home. Always the gracious hostess, Helen delighted in visits from her family and friends. She was truly a loved woman and leaves a wonderful legacy of wisdom and love. Like others of this greatest generation, in the twilight of her years Helen remained modest about her spectacular accomplishments. Helen is survived by her five children: Carol Sutton (Jerry), Sam Starnes (Freida), Anne Britton (Dale) of Monroe; Judy Consoli (Bob) of Waxhaw; Bonnie Lemke (Bill) of Hendersonville, NC. There are ten grandchildren: Jennifer Smith (Ray), Jay Sutton (Lindsay), Chad Starnes (Lisa), Travis Starnes (Amber), Andy McManus (Julie), Weston McManus (Megan), Josh Britton (Erin), Jordan Britton (Katie), Stuart Britton (Caitlin), Haley Britton; and eleven great-grandchildren. Sisters-in-law surviving are Mildred Cox, Louise Cox, Julia Cox, Delano Cox and Patsy Nash. Visitation will be Thursday, May 4, 2017 from 6-8 pm at Gordon Funeral Service in Monroe. Funeral services will be held Friday, May 5, 2017, at 2 pm at Prospect United Methodist Church. Officiating are Rev. Rhonda Campbell and Helen’s grandson Rev. Joshua Britton. Memorials may be made to Prospect United Methodist Church, 6020 Prospect Road, Monroe, NC 28112 and Hospice of Union County, 700 W. Roosevelt Blvd., Monroe, NC 28110. Gordon Funeral Service and Crematory is caring for the Starnes family. Online condolences may be made to www.gordonfuneralservice.com.