Steve Walda Starnes, 66, of Connelly Springs, passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at Catawba Valley Medical Center following a period of declining health.

Steve was born April 6, 1960 in Burke County to the late Nick Starnes and Virginia Stephens Starnes. Steve was very active in his community and never judged anyone. He was a member of Peace United Church of Christ in Hickory.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter, Jacqueline “Jackie” Starnes.

He is survived by his son, John Clark Starnes and son-in-law, Patrick Lookhoff; sister, Sandra Townsend Bishop of Hickory; and nephew, Matthew Townsend of Hickory. Also surviving is his half-sister, Terry Cook; step-sister, Sherry Cook; and step-brother, Ricky Cook; aunt, Margarette Polson of Camden, SC; brother, Richard Stephens and wife Beth Henry of Charlotte, NC; aunt, Anna Dean; cousin, Judy Berry; and his cat, Shadow.

A celebration of life will be held at 6:00 PM, Sunday, June 14, 2026 at Peace United Church of Christ, 2230 29th Ave. Dr. NE, Hickory, NC, 28601. The family will receive friends from 5:30 - 6:00 PM.

Memorials may be made to Amorem Hospice at www.amoremsupport.org.

Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory in Valdese is assisting the family.