Carolyn Gammon Starkey

Carolyn “Carol” Gammon Starkey April 14, 1940 – January 14, 2025 It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Carolyn “Carol” Gammon Starkey, 84, of Danville, Virginia. A Mother, Wife, Sister, and Aunt She was Born on April 14, 1940, in Pittsylvania County to Joseph Oliver Gammon and Carrie Eanes Gammon, Carol spent her life forging unbreakable bonds with those she loved and bringing stability and truth wherever she went. She is survived by her devoted son, William Starkey; her sisters, Louise Gammon Berndt and Vernie Gammon Grogan; nieces and nephews: Gail Sledge, Cheryl Paige, Kaye Jameson, Jay Baker, Jimmy Gammon, Tommy Gammon, Melody Scearce, Patty Baker, Joslyn Berndt Dobson, Jenny Holley, Melissa Bray, and Joey Scearce. She also leaves behind 18 great-nieces and nephews and 10 great-great-nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband Tommie Starkey they were Married July 11, 1964, and her siblings: Douglas Austin “Jimmy” Gammon, June Gammon Baker, and Gaynell Gammon Scearce. Growing up in the Vandola community, Carol was a lifelong member of Vandola Baptist Church—her steadfast faith anchoring the direct, no-nonsense approach she brought to every facet of her life. After graduating from Brosville High School, she earned her Registered Nursing degree from the Danville Memorial Hospital School of Nursing in 1961, following a rigorous three-year program with specialty training in Washington, D.C. Carol then dedicated 20 years of service to Dr. Arey, a general practitioner, followed by four years at the Dan River Mill Health Clinic and an additional 21 years at Danville Urology Clinic. A force to be reckoned with, Carol never hesitated to speak her mind or roll up her sleeves when people needed help. Alongside her forthright demeanor was a remarkable compassion, driving her to guide countless family members, friends, and patients toward healing. Her capacity to coordinate lifesaving organ transplants or address daunting medical crises with calm determination was a testament to her caring commitment. Yet Carol’s generosity extended far beyond her professional life. From her kitchen she made delicious chocolate cakes, coconut cakes, and her fabled sweet potato soufflés—always providing those she loved not just with food, but also with the comfort of her presence. With a single glance, she could discern when someone needed a kind word—or a firm push in the right direction—and she offered both without a hint of hesitation. Her distinct shoe collection spoke to the spirit of a woman who lived life on her own terms—practical, unflinching, and bold. We will miss her unique personal combination of frank counsel and steadfast devotion. As we mourn Carol’s passing, we remember the countless lives she touched, and the family she supported through every celebration and challenge. Her legacy is a reminder that sometimes what the world needs most is someone unafraid to tell the truth, lend a steady hand, and her unwavering ability to “get things done.” The Family is receiving visitors Wednesday evening from 7-9pm at the residence of her sister Louise Berndt 200 Westhaven Drive. The family will be gathered with Carol at The Wrenn-Yeattts Westover Chapel Thursday January 16 from 6-7:30 pm and Her Celebration of Life will take place At Vandola Baptist Church Friday January 17, 2024, at 2pm. In Lieu of flowers the family request Memorial Donations to Vandola Baptist Church 1950 Vandola Church Road Danville, Virginia 24541 Wrenn-Yeatts Westover Chapel is serving the Starkey family.

Carolyn Gammon Starkey

April 14, 1940 - January 14, 2025