Obituaries

Phyllis Marilyn (Greenlief) Starkey 88 passed away in the early morning hours of October 28, 2023 at her home in Glenville, WV with her loving son by her side.

She was born April 24, 1935, in Glenville, WV to Ted and Alma (Sprouse) Greenlief who preceded her in death, along with siblings: Larry Greenlief, Fred Greenlief, William “Bill” Greenlief, Jack Greenlief, Joyce Minney, Wanda Boggs and Mary Sue Roe. Phyllis is also preceded in death by the love of her life of 67 years, Leon “Big Leon” Starkey, and one granddaughter, Jamie Leigh Starkey.

Phyllis is survived by her only child, Leon Carl Starkey, also known as “Little Leon” of Walkersville, WV, and loving daughters-in-law: Leslie Reedy and husband Jarrett of Valley Grove, WV, Christine Barr of Oak Island, NC, and Reva Starkey of Flatwoods, WV. Phyllis was blessed with three granddaughters: Stacey Barton and husband, Jason of Pickerington, OH, Shana Boose and husband Beau of Oak Island, NC and Shawna Cogar and companion Lucas Cottrell of Fairview, WV, and six great-grandchildren: Hunter Barton and companion Danae Pickens, Sydney Barton, Allanah Barton, Alton Cogar, Sawyer Cogar and Shyla Boose. She is also survived by siblings: Pat Clutter and husband Ken of Canton, OH, Nancy Minney and husband Tom of Coxs Mills, WV, and Betty Wright of Glenville, WV. Many nieces, nephews, cousins, and many other amazing extended family also survive Phyllis.

Phyllis graduated from Glenville High School in Gilmer County, WV. Phyllis married her true love, Leon in Akron, OH on February 11, 1956; and soon after welcomed their son. After residing in Ohio for a short period, Leon and Phyllis returned to Glenville, WV. Upon returning to Glenville, Phyllis decided to continue her education at Glenville State College, graduating in 1959 with a degree in Education. She went on to educate young minds Burnsville School, Gilmer County High School and Glenville State College. Through the years she taught various classes and was an advisor to multiple extra-curriculars, eventually, she retired from the Gilmer County Board of Education. Phyllis served two terms as Mayor of Glenville in the 1980s and later served as a board member for the Gilmer County Board of Education for many years. She is fondly remembered by her students.

Phyllis enjoyed reading and word puzzles but what brought her the most joy was her family. She loved spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she was very proud of. Phyllis enjoyed all holidays, decorating and giving gifts but mainly the quality family time. Phyllis treasured spending time with her beloved husband watching WVU ball games and NASCAR races. She was vastly involved with her local community, women’s rights, and local politics and was a strong advocate for special needs children.

At Phyllis’ request, she will be cremated and laid to rest with her love, Leon at Meadow Lane Cemetery near Glenville. To grant her final wishes, there will not be a public funeral service and she asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to WV Democratic Party, PO Box 11926, Charleston WV 25339. The immediate family will host a private Celebration of Life Service at a later date. The family of Phyllis Starkey would like to thank the Ellyson Mortuary, Inc. 2 Vanhorn Drive, Glenville, WV 26351 for assisting in granting her wishes and for their care and support during this time.