James Harlon Starnes, born on February 22, 1938, in McComb, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2026, in Knoxville, Tennessee, at eighty-eight years of age.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Wheeler and Edith Starnes; granddaughter, Ashley Beth Lovell; son, Russell Harlon Starnes; son, Brian Knight; and brother, Wheeler Edward “Ed” Starnes.
He is survived by his wife, Anne Beldon Starnes; sister, Jeanette Wroten; brother, Frank Ross Starnes; son, James Randall “Randy” Starnes; daughter, Robin Lovell; daughter, Paula Starnes (Keith); daughter, Tara Wilborn-Gray (Steve); twelve grandchildren; twenty great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
During his life, he was known as “Harlon,” “Daddy,” “Dad,” and “PawPaw.” His family meant the world to Harlon. He loved and was proud of each one.
Harlon grew up in McComb, Mississippi. After high school he displayed a natural mechanical aptitude and forged a career as machinist, diesel mechanic, and business owner. He found true joy and purpose in hard work and honest labor, and his tireless work ethic left a lasting impression on anyone who worked alongside him.
He proudly served his country in the U.S. National Guard. He also served as a town and county volunteer fireman.
Harlon will always be remembered for his great love of adventure. As a young man until his mid-eighties Harlon’s greatest hobby was riding motorcycles. He was a member of the Faith Riders motorcycle group, and he and Anne rode through all 48 contiguous states of America.
Harlon began following the Lord later in life and was active in church, helping others in need, putting roofs on houses, helping to move people out of bad situations, and even helping his son Randy build and install an eight-foot cross on the bikers’ church. He also did lawn work for the “older” people at church until he was in his eighties and was always eager to lend a helping hand.
James Harlon Starnes has now gone to his rest, but he will remain in the hearts and memories of his family and friends who love and will miss him.
A celebration of life, with an American flag presentation to honor his service, will be held on September 19, 2026, 4:00 p.m. at Open Arms Mission, 208 Calvary Church Road, Mooresburg, Tennessee.