Mary Marie Dagenhart Starnes

Mary Marie Dagenhart Starnes, age 95, lovingly known as Marie, was born on February 19, 1931, in Alexander County. She entered eternal rest on February 25, 2026, at Catawba Valley Medical Center in Catawba County, leaving behind a legacy woven into the fabric of her family and community.

Marie cherished her family above all else. She was a loving mother to Richard Starnes (Renda), Sheila Baker (Lindsey), Jeffrey Starnes, and Lisa Gull (Michael), and her warmth and nurturing spirit extended to her grandchildren — Farrah Hefner (Mark), Casey Starnes (Jamie), Candice Coleman (David), Christopher Starnes, Miranda Crouse (Dallas), Megan Hinen (Josh), Katie Slaght (Adam), and Avery Gull. With each passing day, her role as a grandmaw became one of her greatest joys. Marie’s love encompassed not only her grandchildren but also her great-grandchildren — Josh, Jordan, and Jacob Starnes; Parker Starnes; Molly Starnes; Grayson Coleman; Benjamin Coleman; Waylon Crouse; and Hazel Hinen, and her special friend Mary Faye Cline. The laughter and love shared amongst her family and friends were a testament to her nurturing heart.

Marie was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 52 years, Billy Starnes, along with her parents, Erastus "Ras" Dagenhart and Vilee Keever Dagenhart. She mourned the loss of her sons, Wayne Edward Starnes and Mark Christopher Starnes, brothers Harlee "Buck" Dagenhart and Calvin Leon "Bud" Dagenhart, and sisters Gaynell Dagenhart and Rachel Hefner. Her grandson, Scott Starnes, along with her special friend Emo Bebber.

A proud member of Mt. Bethel Methodist Church, Marie was actively involved in women's groups, where her spirit of service shone brightly. She poured her love into her community and was known for her vibrant gardening efforts, particularly her passion for flowers and tomato plants. Traveling with Christian Tours brought her delight, enriching her life with adventure and fellowship.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Marie's life at a visitation at Mt. Bethel Methodist Church, located at 9042 NC Hwy 127, Hickory, NC, on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm. The funeral service will be Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 3:00 pm at Mt. Bethel Methodist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Pastor Brad Caldwell will officiate.

Memorials may be made to Mt. Bethel Methodist Women, 9042 NC Hwy 127, Hickory, NC 28601, or Carolina Caring, 3975 Robinson Rd, Newton, NC 28658.

Marie’s journey through life has left an indelible mark on those who knew and loved her. Her enduring love for her family and her deep connections within the community will continue to inspire all who carry her memory in their hearts.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com