On July 5, 1950 God sent one of his most beloved daughters into the world. Helen Marie Starling was a devoted wife, mother, loving grandmother, treasured great-great grandmother, caring aunt, generous cousin and friend. She was born to the late BJ and Robert Marie Williams where she was one of seven children. Helen was cherished by her family, close friends and all who came to know her.

Mrs. Starling was educated at Marvin Pynes High School where she accelerated and grew socially, academically, and responsibly. A native of DeKalb, Texas she became a household and community name by all for her many acts of kindness, charitable work, activism, advocate for education, love and hope for a community she dearly loved. More so she has been recognized by the Marvin Pynes Alumni Association for outstanding service to the community in which she has served as secretary.

Helen accepted Christ at an early age and held on to Him to the day of her passing. She loved the Lord and she loved God's people. Her love for her community and church family is a true testament of her faith. She worked for years to encourage the youth. In addition, her church involvement in the Zion District Association Training and Educational courses for which she reigned as second runner up for Miss Zion District. She was currently serving as Vice President of the Zion District Women's Mission Auxiliary, a testament of her commitment, loyalty and concern for women's ministry, a cause for which she dearly loved. Helen is a member of the St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church where she has served as church clerk, President of the Usher Board, Vacation Bible School Teacher, Youth Ministry Volunteer and President of the Women of Excellence Mission Auxiliary. She has truly left her mark and was a star in His kingdom.

Helen traveled and served as keynote speaker for churches, schools and organizations.  Mrs. Starling served as President of the DeKalb Parent Teacher Association, member of the Principal's Advisory Board, and Campus Planning Committee,all of which she was an asset in creating changes in the DeKalb Independent School District.  On behalf of the Concerned Citizens of DeKalb she received an award for outstanding community member. Mrs. Helen Starling is a true pearl of wisdom seeking to motivate, encourage, and inspire those around her.

She was preceded in death by her (parents) BJ and Robert Marie Williams, (brother) Eddie Moore, (brother) Bradford Williams, (sister) Valadean Moore, and her beloved husband Willie Grady Starling whom she affectionately referred to as 'Boots.'

On Tuesday morning, November 17, 2020 God looked down and decided her destiny had been fulfilled on earth and it was time to take her rightful place by His side. She leaves to cherish her beautiful memory four children: Tisha P. Williams, Cynthia L. Williams of DeKalb, Texas, Michael Williams and Verna Wilson-Williams of Dallas, Texas and Dr. Maria V. Starling of Houston, Texas. She also leaves behind her adored grandchildren Victor Williams, Quincy Williams, Darius 'Clay'Williams, Michael Williams Jr., Vincile Williams , Carlos Gonzalez, Mikrishna F. Williams, and Mikia Williams. She will rest in the memory of her three sisters, Annie Shields, and Janet Jackson both of Dallas, Texas, and Lenora Lanell Williams of Dekalb, Texas. A special cousin Jimmy "Sonny Boy" Eastman of Dekalb, Texas. Lastly, she leaves behind a host of great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. And as she would want it may her passing be an encouragement to everyone for a closer relationship with God through His son, Jesus Christ. Rest in Him and we will see you again in that great getting' up morning.

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