Sarah Starkey

(From Backstrom-Pyeatte Funeral Home)

Sarah M. Starkey, age 92, of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, passed away on Friday, February 27, 2026.

Sarah was born on August 15, 1933, in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, the daughter of the late Ernest Dodgen and Kathleen (Ward) Dodgen. On August 19, 1955, she married Dr. Samuel J. Starkey, Jr., who preceded her in death on May 10, 2011.

Sarah held a bachelor's degree from John Brown University and a master’s degree from Pittsburg State University in education and devoted her life to teaching, a calling she embraced with dedication and care for her students. She retired from the Webb City, Missouri School District after many years of service, leaving a lasting impact on those she taught and worked with. She was a proud member of Delta Kappa Gamma and remained actively involved in the P.E.O. Sisterhood for 65 years. A lifetime member of the Methodist Church, Sarah’s faith and community were important parts of her life. In her quieter moments, she found joy and peace in watercolor painting, a talent that reflected her thoughtful and creative spirit.

She is survived by her daughter, Jessica Lynn Foster and husband, Rulon; her sons, Samuel J. Starkey III and wife, Shari, and Barton W. Starkey and wife, Stacy; her brother, Rev. Dr. Lawrence Dodger and wife, Ann; her sisters, Linda Wesley and Cleraone Dailey; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Sarah was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Samuel J. Starkey, Jr., and her sister, Pamela Rasmussen.