George Howard “Pete” Starnes, 96, of Granite Falls, departed this life to his heavenly home on Monday April 14, 2025 at Amorem Hospice in Valdese, following a period of declining health.
Pete was born on November 4, 1928 in Caldwell County to the late George Elisha Starnes and Dewey Blanche Teague Starnes. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, during the Korean Conflict; and was an Industrial Engineer with Shuford Mills, Inc. for over 49 years.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife Jeanette Goble Starnes; his brother, Henry Starnes; and his sisters, Dot Riggan and Sue Wentz.
Survivors include his son, Chris Starnes and wife Margie of Granite Falls; his daughters, Sharyn Shore and husband Tom of England, and Karen Wallace of Granite Falls; his grandchildren, James Starnes, Caitlin Frank and husband Hayden, Taylor Bell and husband Matthew, Samuel Wallace and Benjamin Wallace; also surviving are three great-grandchildren, Amberly Bell, Elara Bell, and Delilah Bell.
Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Friday April 18, 2025 at First Baptist Church in Granite Falls, with Rev. Jay Worsley officiating. Interment will follow at Pinecrest Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest beside his wife Jeanette.
The family will receive friends Friday from 1:00-2:00 P.M. at First Baptist Church in Granite Falls.
Memorial contributions may be made to Amorem Hospice, 1721 Enon Rd. Valdese, NC 28690.
An online guestbook and obituary is available at www.mackiefh.com.
Mackie Funeral Service & Cremations of Granite Falls is serving the Starnes family.
Pete Starnes was a God fearing man, who served his country well. He will be missed by all those that knew and loved him. Praying for his family to have peace and comfort during this transition in their lives. I have known this family for years and you have my sincere condolences.
Dear Sharyn, Karen, and Chris,
I want you to know I’m thinking about you and your families at this time. I have vivid memories of our Christmas celebrations from many years ago and, more recently, talking to great uncle Pete about golf. I loved the fact he was still playing in his late 80’s. I’m praying for you all and we’re keeping all of you close to our hearts.
With love,
Trent Starnes
Oh what a pleasure it was being Pete’s caregiver at his home for almost 2 yrs. He was a true blessing to me and we were great friends and I showed him love and care with all my heart. He built a trust in me like no other and that was a true blessing to me. God let our paths cross so we could be good friends. God bless his family and it’s not good bye sweet Pete but until I see ya again. Bobbie Stewart.
Pete and Jeanette were some of the first people that welcomed me to Granite Falls over 43 years ago. Pete was such a good friend and became my sister’s father in law when she married his son, Chris, some 37 years ago.
We, in recent years had the honor to care for him in his home.
I know he is celebrating his eternal life!
Our love and condolences are with Sharon, Karen and Chris and their families.
To Sharyn, Chris and Karen…so very sorry for your loss. I always thought so much of both your parents and really appreciated the many beach trips where I was included just like another member of the family. Your dad always called me “Cobbler” with a mischievous grin on his face. What a tease! Take comfort that he is rejoicing in heaven with Momma Jeanette and all will be together one day. My prayers for all of you as you navigate through this difficult time.